Haiti – UN Urges Regional Forces to Join Kenya’s Security Contingent

According to a statement from UN spokesperson Farhan Haq, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, he said, welcomed Kenya’s readiness to lead an international force to help Haiti’s police combat gang violence and encouraged other countries – particularly from Haiti’s region – to join the effort.

Reporters posed the question during a news conference with Haq. He advised that they were in in the early stages of this announcement, but all help is welcome.

Farhan: “…what I can say is that the Secretary-General welcomes Kenya’s positive response to his call for the urgently needed international non-UN security support to Haiti.  He values Kenya’s consideration to possibly lead a non-UN multinational force, and he expresses his gratitude for the solidarity expressed by the Kenyan Government. The Secretary-General reiterates his call to the Security Council to support such a non-UN international operation and encourages Member States, particularly from the region, to join forces with Kenya.

Last week, officials in Kenya say they are ready to lead a multinational force into Haiti as escalating violence between armed gangs and police is fueling a humanitarian crisis that has displaced thousands of people.

The Kenya Foreign Minister said his country’s proposal still needs a United Nations Security Council mandate and authorisation from Kenyan authorities.

“An Assessment Mission by a Task Team of the Kenya Police is scheduled within the next few weeks,” Mutua said.