Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille has expressed urgent concerns regarding delays in funding for the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) aimed at stabilizing Haiti amidst ongoing violence and social unrest.
During a recent joint forum held at the Montana Hotel on August 8, where Conille was the chief guest, he emphasized the critical need for prompt financial support to maintain the credibility of the transitional government and meet the urgent needs of the Haitian populace.
“People are living under very bad circumstances. They want to see action. They want to see movement,” stated Conille, underscoring the frustrations faced by Haitians amid the failure to secure timely resources for the mission.
He acknowledged the global strain on international aid resources but stressed that the situation in Haiti demands immediate attention and support.
The Prime Minister’s warning comes as the country grapples with escalating expectations following the arrival of Kenyan forces, who have been tasked with assisting local authorities in restoring order.
Conille cautioned that failure to deliver necessary funding could shatter these expectations and compromise the entire mission.
“The arrival of the Kenyans has created expectations, and we need to meet this expectation, or the whole system crumbles,” he added.
The forum, chaired by the Canadian ambassador to Haiti, Andre Francois Giroux, brought together representatives from various nations, including the US, EU, and several Latin American countries and crucial UN agencies.
The attendees were called upon to unify their efforts in supporting the mission, recognizing it as essential to Haiti’s stabilization.
Additionally, Conille appealed for increased assistance for the Haitian National Police (HNP), who, despite being a considerable force, lack the necessary resources and equipment to effectively combat the rising gang violence.
He articulated the need for guaranteed security, particularly with the general elections approaching next year, emphasizing that “security is key to free and fair elections.”
Normil Rameu, Director General of the HNP, echoed Conille’s sentiments, highlighting the pressure from the local populace for immediate results in light of gang-related threats.
MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge also requested expedited delivery of equipment to bolster police capabilities, expressing his commitment to support the HNP in reclaiming territory from gangs and ensuring the safety of vital government installations.
The Kenyan police forces currently in Haiti are stationed to manage critical infrastructure, including the main airport, presidential palace, and hospitals.
In a bid to enhance operational effectiveness, they are undergoing linguistic and intercultural training to better integrate into the local environment.
