This week, the US and Panama proposed a new peacekeeping force for Haiti. They presented the plan to the UN Security Council and OAS. However, it’s unclear how this force will differ from the current one. The countries are drafting an operational plan.
If approved, the force will have at least 5,500 officers. Their goal is to dismantle gangs like Viv Ansanm, led by Jimmy Cherizier, or “Barbecue.”
US Ambassador to the UN, Dorothy Shea, thanked Kenya for its vital role in Haiti. She credited Kenya with preventing the gangs from becoming bolder.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged the Security Council to approve a reliable UN-backed force. Nonetheless, China and Russia oppose a UN-funded mission in Haiti.
Guterres also recommended supporting Kenya’s mission with drones, fuel, and transport. Kenya remains open to talks on the mission’s future. The goal is to restore peace.
Meanwhile, Erik Prince’s Vectus Global is sending 200 personnel to help Haitian authorities. They will assist in reclaiming gang-controlled areas.
Haiti faces a serious humanitarian crisis. Over 1.3 million people are displaced. In addition, six million people need aid. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime confirmed that elections are on track. With 85% of polling stations ready, security remains the government’s top priority.
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