President William Ruto has proposed that Kenya’s Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti be transitioned into a formal U.N. peacekeeping operation.
His remarks were made during an impromptu visit to Haiti on September 21, where he assessed the progress of the MSS, which has been at the forefront of combating the country’s rampant gang violence.
Kenya has been playing a pivotal role in Haiti’s MSS, which was approved by the U.N. Security Council for a 12-month period. However, with the mission’s mandate set to expire in October, discussions are underway to extend it and explore a potential transition into a fully-fledged U.N. peacekeeping mission.
“We have absolutely no problem with the suggestion to transition this into a fully U.N. peacekeeping mission if that is the direction the U.N. Security Council wants to take,” Ruto stated during his visit. He also interacted with Kenyan police officers deployed in Haiti, lauding their efforts in stabilizing the country.
The U.S. and Ecuador have circulated a draft resolution aimed at renewing the MSS mandate for another year while also preparing for its transition into a peacekeeping mission. The U.N. Security Council is expected to vote on the matter on September 30.
During his visit, Ruto joked about the notorious Haitian gang leader, Jimmy Cherizier, alias Barbecue, who reportedly surrendered to Kenyan forces. “Otunge [commander of the Kenyan peacekeepers] informed me that Barbecue’s base has been flattened, and he now wants to become a preacher,” Ruto remarked, earning laughs from the officers.
Ruto underscored the need for continued international support, emphasizing that additional resources would expedite the mission’s goals. He urged the Haitian people, particularly civic leaders and youth, to take advantage of the relative peace to build their future.
“The Mission is here to create an environment where you can reclaim your nation’s safety and security and determine your future,” Ruto said, reiterating Kenya’s commitment to restoring order in Haiti.
