CS Alfred Mutua speaks on Kenya’s mission to tackle gang violence in Haiti
Kenya is set to lead a United Nations peace mission to Haiti after the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) approved the intervention.
Foreign Affairs Ministry Cabinet Secretary Dr Alfred Mutua welcomed this significant move, expressing gratitude to the UNSC for granting Kenya the mandate to address the crisis in Haiti.
The Caribbean nation had requested international assistance in dealing with the relentless gang violence that has been plaguing the country.
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In a statement, Dr Mutua acknowledged the UNSC’s decision and praised those who contributed constructively to shaping the resolution, making it suitable for the mission’s purpose.
“I thank the United Nations Security Council #UNSC for adopting the Resolution that gives the mandate to intervene in Haiti to help our suffering brothers and sisters. I thank all those who have constructively participated to make the resolution fit for purpose and the effective networking that has gone on,” said the CS.
He also called upon other nations to step in and collaborate in restoring security and ensuring effective governance in Haiti.
The mandate granted to Kenya is not limited to restoring peace and security; it also encompasses the broader goals of rebuilding the country’s political, economic, and social stability.
Dr Mutua emphasised that this mission marks a new beginning for the people of Haiti and will contribute positively to global peace and security.
“It is the beginning of a new chapter for the fathers, mothers, and children of Haiti. It’s for the posterity of Haiti and a force for good for global Peace and Security. History will judge all of us kindly,” stated the CS.
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On October 2, 2023, 13 out of 15 countries on the UNSC voted in favor of the mission, with no votes against the resolution.
Notably, the council consists of 15 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, China, France, and Russia, which possess veto powers.
However, both Russia and China abstained from the vote due to concerns about the blanket use of force to address the Haiti crisis under Chapter 7 of the founding U.N. Charter.
Haiti’s Foreign Minister, Jean-Victor Geneus, expressed appreciation for the UNSC’s decision, considering it a sign of solidarity with a population in distress.
“More than just a simple vote, this is, in fact, an expression of solidarity with a population in distress. It’s a glimmer of hope for the people that have for too long been suffering,” he said.
As part of the mission, Kenya is expected to send 1,000 police officers to Haiti in January 2024 to address the ongoing gang violence.
Nevertheless, this move has faced opposition from various stakeholders, both in Kenya and Haiti, who argue that deploying troops to the region could exacerbate the situation.