Kenya proposes UN peacekeeping mission in Haiti amid gang violence
- Kenyan President William Ruto visited Haiti to evaluate the Multinational Security Support mission aimed at curbing gang violence.
- Ruto expressed openness to transitioning the mission into a formal UN peacekeeping operation, depending on the UN Security Council's decision.
- The MSS mission faces scrutiny as it approaches its mandate renewal, highlighting the ongoing challenges in addressing Haiti's security crisis.
Haiti has been grappling with severe gang violence, leading to significant political instability and mass displacement of its citizens. Kenyan President William Ruto visited Haiti to evaluate the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, which Kenya leads, aimed at addressing these issues. During his visit, Ruto expressed openness to transitioning the current mission into a formal UN peacekeeping operation, contingent on the UN Security Council's decision. He acknowledged the progress made in Haiti, despite ongoing challenges, including the internal displacement of approximately 700,000 people due to violence. The MSS mission, initially approved for a year, is set to expire soon, prompting discussions about extending its mandate and possibly enhancing its structure. Ruto's visit coincided with the 100-day mark of Kenyan police deployment in Haiti, where they have faced scrutiny over their effectiveness in combating gang activities. The situation remains precarious, with calls for additional support and resources to bolster the mission's capabilities. The UN Security Council is expected to vote on the mandate renewal soon, as various countries, including Benin, have pledged to contribute more personnel to the mission. However, the legacy of previous UN interventions in Haiti complicates the current discussions, as concerns about past abuses and health crises linger in the public consciousness.