(MSSM) Godfrey Otunge has provided a new update on the operation to regain control of the Caribbean nation. In his statement, Otunge urged other countries to deploy their troops to Haiti to support the efforts of the Kenyan elite police squad already stationed there.
During a meeting with Miroslav Jenča, Under-Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia, DPPA Americas, and DPO, Otunge highlighted that the troops had successfully reclaimed various infrastructures and territories from gangs. “Otunge shared the achievements and challenges of the MSS while stressing the need to establish Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) to maintain the pacified areas and protect government infrastructure,” his office stated.
He added that the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Belize are expected to send their advance contingents by the end of September 2024. Otunge emphasized that this will give the MSS mission a much-needed multinational presence, rather than being perceived as solely a Kenyan mission.
Otunge also pledged support for ongoing security operations in Delmas, Solino, and Croix des Bouquets. He issued a stern warning to gang leaders, stating that they would have no place to hide unless they surrender their weapons and face justice.
During the meeting, Jenča praised Kenya for its bold decision to lead and deploy troops to Haiti, acknowledging that despite being in the deployment phase, the MSSM’s achievements have been impressive. He called on contributing countries that have not yet deployed their troops to expedite their deployment.
This update follows Otunge’s assurance to Kenyan troops about fair compensation after a delay in their payments. “Going forward, an elaborate mechanism has been established to ensure payments are made promptly at the end of each month.
There is no need to worry about the welfare of MSS officers, as processes have been finalized,” MSS stated on Sunday, August 25, 2024. This assurance came after reports from relatives of the Kenyan officers that they had missed salaries for the second month of the mission.
