Two months following the deployment of Kenyan police to Haiti, officials are now urging for the prompt provision of resources to bolster their operations.
Since their arrival, the officers have faced challenges in establishing communication with local ambassadors and authorities to facilitate the delivery of necessary resources. READ FULL STORY
Godfrey Otunge, the head of the team, expressed optimism regarding the arrival of additional resources to assist in fulfilling their mission.
The officers are tasked with supporting the Haitian National Police (HNP) in restoring security in Haiti and creating a favorable environment for free and fair elections.
Prime Minister Garry Conille has voiced concerns regarding the delays in funding, cautioning that insufficient timely support could jeopardize the entire operation and diminish the credibility of the transitional government.
“People are enduring extremely difficult conditions. They are eager for action. Regrettably, the resources are inadequate and not arriving swiftly enough.
“While we recognize the existence of numerous emergencies and fatigue, there remains a glimmer of hope,” he stated.
Conille further noted that failing to meet the funding requirements for the mission could lead to shattered expectations.
“The arrival of Kenyan officers created expectations and we need to meet them or the whole system crumbles,” he said.
On August 8, international partners convened a joint forum at the Montana Hotel to discuss the security sector in Haiti.
The session was led by Canadian Ambassador to Haiti, Andre Giroux, who emphasized the critical nature of the MSS mission and the necessity for comprehensive support from all stakeholders.
The meeting was attended by US Ambassador Dennis Hankins, along with senior representatives from the Bahamas, European Union, Spain, France, Argentina, Brazil, Japan, Mexico, Chile, Switzerland and various UN agencies.
The mission in Haiti receives funding from the US government and other contributors.
Conille urged international partners to bolster the Haitian National Police, which, despite its personnel strength, faces significant shortages in resources and armaments.
He advocated for prompt action as the nation approaches elections scheduled for next year.
