The Head of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti, Godfrey Otunge, has affirmed the mission’s commitment to restoring peace and security amidst the escalation of gang violence in the Caribbean nation.
In a statement to the press on Monday, November 11, the police boss noted that the peacekeepers would continue their primary role of assisting in creating a conducive environment for free and fair elections in Haiti as mandated by the United Nations.
Otunge, while acknowledging the progress made by the peacekeepers in restoring peace in the war-torn country, revealed that the foreign officers would continue to work closely with the Haitian officers to conduct joint operations aimed at dismantling gang activities and securing critical government infrastructure.
According to the police commander, the impromptu operations were key in stabilising several towns currently under gang control and ensuring the safety of the country’s citizens.
Otunge further disclosed that the mission was still in the deployment phase and was slowly transitioning into a fully-fledged operation boosted by the arrival of additional security personnel from contributing countries.
In his update, the police commander lauded the citizens of Haiti and expressed confidence in their continued support and cooperation in tackling the gang-related threats that have immensely hampered the country's progress.
“The collaboration between the MSS and HNP is crucial to bringing about the necessary stability for the progress and prosperity of Haiti. However, the MSS and the HNP will continue to do this with the support of the Haitian people,” Otunge stated.
“The MSS therefore reaffirms its commitment to the people of Haiti and pledges that we will continue to steadfastly support the efforts of the HNP to restore law and order to the Republic,” he added.
The latest update came barely two days after the Haiti Presidential Council dismissed Garry Conille as the country’s Prime Minister six months after being in charge of the troubled nation.
An executive order published on Monday, November 11, confirmed the appointment of 52-year-old Alix Didier Fils Aime as the new Head of State, replacing Garry Conille. The executive order was signed by eight out of nine presidential council members.
However, despite his dismissal, Conille has since challenged the order that certified his ouster, questioning its legality. According to Conille, only the Parliament could dismiss him from the top seat.
Garry Conille was appointed as Haiti's Prime Minister in June this year by a nine-member presidential council which was formed during the tenure of Conille's predecessor, Ariel Henry, who resigned in May 2024.
