A new group of two hundred and thirty Kenyan police officers has arrived in Haiti, marking the fifth contingent deployed to the violence scarred Caribbean nation since the start of the United Nations backed security mission. They join more than seven hundred Kenyan officers already working to support Haiti’s National Police in operations aimed at dismantling powerful armed gangs.
The multinational mission also includes troops and police from Jamaica, Guatemala, and El Salvador. Kenyan Gang Suppression Force commander Godfrey Otunge welcomed the officers at Haiti’s main international airport and said their arrival came at a decisive moment. According to him, the mission has gained renewed momentum following an expanded mandate issued on three October twenty twenty five.
Otunge stated, “We have enabled well synchronized operations that have dealt significant blows to the gangs tormenting this nation,” while praising the collective effort of the forces involved.
Around one hundred Kenyan officers from the first deployment are now being rotated out. Their return coincides with significant political developments in Haiti. The country’s transitional presidential council recently adopted an electoral law that lays the foundation for holding general elections for the first time in almost ten years. The move allows the government to publish an official electoral calendar, long awaited by Haitian citizens and international partners.
However, tensions remain within the council as some members continue to push for the removal of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils Aimé. Among them is Fritz Alphonse Jean, who was recently sanctioned by the United States government.
Otunge expressed determination and optimism, reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to Haiti’s stability. “We will not rest until our shared goal is achieved. A secure Haiti capable of conducting free, fair, and credible national elections,” he said in a message directed to the Haitian people. He also reassured international partners that the mission will continue pursuing those responsible for terrorising communities.
“There will be no refuge left for those who choose to oppress and terrorize the innocent,” Otunge declared.
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