Haiti Awaits Multinational Force to Combat Rampant Gang Violence
Haiti remains in a precarious situation as the initial deployment of a multinational force led by Kenya, initially scheduled for this week, has been postponed. This force is anticipated to help the Haitian police combat the gangs that have terrorized the population and largely control the capital, Port-au-Prince.
The delay comes amidst growing urgency following the murder of three individuals, including two American missionaries, in an attack by armed gangs. The tragic event has intensified calls for rapid deployment. 'The security situation in Haiti cannot wait,' said a US government spokesperson.
The mission has support from the UN, with significant logistical backing from Washington—although it will not be providing personnel directly. Senior Kenyan officers have already arrived in Haiti for reconnaissance duties. Despite much speculation about the deployment coinciding with Kenyan President William Ruto's state visit to Washington, no formal announcement was made.
Security Assessments and Deployment Delays
According to Kenyan President William Ruto, the deployment of troops could be delayed by approximately three weeks, contingent on meeting certain conditions. 'Once we have carried out the assessment agreed upon with the Haitian police and Haitian leaders, we anticipate a period of approximately three weeks if everything is ready on the ground,' Ruto told the BBC.
Kenya, along with other contributing nations, aims to restore security to the Caribbean nation. 'This is a crisis and it can be addressed,' declared US President Joe Biden, praising Kenya's 'world-class capabilities.' A Haitian government source mentioned that the delay is partly due to the non-delivery of necessary equipment.
The Uncertain Reaction of Gangs
The reaction of the gangs to the arrival of the multinational force remains uncertain. Diego Da Rin, an expert on Haiti at the International Crisis Group, noted that gangs have been sending mixed signals. On one hand, there seems to be a moderation in attacks; on the other, there have been spectacular incidents like a recent prison assault.
The gangs may be conserving ammunition for a massive offensive against the incoming forces or adopting a 'dual strategy' of maintaining attacks without crossing critical red lines, thus keeping the door open for negotiations with Haitian authorities.
Political Turmoil and Leadership Vacuum
The political situation in Haiti remains unstable. The transitional presidential council, formed after the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, has been mired in power struggles and has yet to appoint a new prime minister or an interim government. Dozens of candidates have been proposed for the role. The US embassy in Haiti recently acknowledged the council's efforts to start the selection process, emphasizing the need for a transparent and merit-based approach.
- The recent murder of American missionaries Davy and Natalie Lloyd has further spotlighted the dire conditions in Haiti. The couple, who worked for Missions in Haiti, Inc., were ambushed and killed by gang members while leaving a church event. The organization has been vocal about the escalating violence, stating, 'Gangs are still fighting for more control and chaos rules.'
- According to Rep. Ben Baker of Missouri, the missionaries were taken to their house, tied up, and beaten before being shot to death. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for international intervention to stabilize the country.
