Efforts to Deploy Kenyan Officers to Address Haiti’s Gang Crisis Continue Through New Pact – Sky Bulletin

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In a recent development, Haiti and Kenya have inked new accords on Friday with the aim of salvaging an initiative to send a contingent of 1,000 Kenyan police officers to aid Haiti in its escalating gang violence crisis. The situation in Haiti has deteriorated significantly, calling for international support.

After the initial agreement in October, the Kenyan High Court blocked the deployment in January, citing constitutional hurdles stemming from the absence of mutual agreements between the nations involved.

Both Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry and Kenya’s President William Ruto presided over the signing ceremony of the reciprocal agreements.

There remain questions regarding the new agreements’ ability to overrule the Kenyan court’s decision, which also stated that the Kenyan National Police Service’s operations are restricted within national borders.

Ongoing disputes have surfaced, with Kenyan opposition leader Ekuru Aukot challenging the lawfulness of Henry’s commitments to these international accords with Kenya.

During a speech in Kenya, Prime Minister Henry emphasized the critical need for elections in Haiti for achieving national stability and for creating an environment conducive to foreign investment. Despite intentions and commitments, Haiti’s leadership states that elections cannot proceed under the shadow of uncontrolled gang activities.

Henry, after having declared the need for elections to stabilize Haiti, noted agreements to aim for general elections by mid-2025. However, his personal safety upon return to Haiti is uncertain due to recent spikes in violence orchestrated by gangs including an attack led by notorious gang leader Jimmy Chérizier, alias “Barbecue”.

Haiti’s gang crisis has worsened since President Moïse‘s assassination, with more than double the number of casualties and abductions reported in 2023 compared to 2022. The control of gangs has expanded, with some estimates suggesting an 80% grip over Port-au-Prince.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Haiti require police assistance from Kenya?

Haiti is facing a dire crisis with gang violence at unprecedented levels, necessitating international aid to restore order and prepare for much-needed democratic elections.

What is the legal challenge faced by the Kenyan police deployment to Haiti?

The Kenyan High Court ruled the initial plan unconstitutional, stating the Kenyan National Police Service cannot be deployed outside its national boundaries without reciprocal agreements. The new pacts seek to address this issue.

Will Prime Minister Ariel Henry hold the elections he’s been advocating for in Haiti?

Prime Minister Henry has expressed the intention to hold elections and aims for them to take place by mid-2025. However, this is contingent on the stabilization of the country amid the gang violence.

Who is Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier?

Jimmy Chérizier, also known as “Barbecue,” is the leader of one of Haiti’s most powerful gang federations, known as G9 Family and Allies. He has been a significant figure in the escalation of gang violence in the country.

Conclusion

Kenya and Haiti’s new agreements are part of a concerted effort to address the serious issue of gang-related violence in Haiti. Despite the legal and practical challenges ahead, the intent to forge international cooperation in mitigating this crisis is clear. The effectiveness and legality of these plans remain to be seen, but the move symbolizes a possible step towards stability and the hope for a future where Haitian democratic processes can unfold without the threat of violence.



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