Kenya’s plan to deploy its police to the multinational mission in Haiti has once again hit the rocks following challenges in the procurement of equipment.
An official with details of the mission and who spoke to the Miami Herald revealed that there was a delay in the procurement of armoured vehicles and helicopters to be used by the Kenyan police.
The deployment which had been scheduled to coincide with President Ruto’s visit to the US now risks extension until all the necessities are acquired.
The US official disclosed that the deployment which was supposed to take place on May 23 could be pushed to a later date, potentially to early June.
While the armoured vehicles had been set for use in fighting the dreaded gangs, the helicopters were specifically for medical evacuations during the battles.
Another crucial issue causing the delay in deployment is that the countries involved in the mission including Kenya are yet to commit to an agreement to allow the deployment.
Thus, the sources privy to details of the mission termed the May 23 deployment as an impossibility unless an urgent intervention is made.
A group of 6 Kenyan security officials who arrived in Haiti on Monday, May 20, have revealed that the preparation did not meet the expectations as they cited a lack of crucial facilities such as communication equipment.
The contingent also confirmed the inadequacy of the armoured vehicles that police officers could use in travelling around the dangerous zones within Port-au-Prince.
However, when questioned about the lack of communication equipment, the US official noted that the communication tools would possibly be delivered before the end of May.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto is currently in the United States for a state visit, courtesy of an invitation by President Joe Biden.
Among the key agendas in the talks will be the contagious topic of the deployment of Kenyan troops to the war-torn country.
However, the US is also facing a challenge in funding the mission despite previously vowing to finance it. Biden has in recent weeks faced backlash from a section of US lawmakers who threatened to block funds meant for the peacekeeping mission.
Among the key issues cited by the Congressmen and women included the uncertainty of whether the Kenyan courts would allow the mission to proceed.
Nonetheless, the latest developments come against the backdrop of Kenyan politician Ekuru Aukot protesting the planned deployment.
Aukot in a letter addressed to the US President and the United Nations, explained reasons why he was opposed to the mission.
Similarly, the politician filed a petition in court, accusing President William Ruto of contempt of court by proceeding with the deployment despite the courts suspending the deployment in January this year.
Thirdway Alliance Party leader claimed that Haiti had not written a formal request to Kenya for the deployment of its officers to quell the wrangles in the Caribbean country.
"There is no government in place in Haiti to give us such a request or sign a bilateral agreement with Kenya," Aukot argued.
