Title: “Kenya: leader of a multinational force for the mission in Haiti”
Introduction :
In an international context marked by growing tensions, the UN has given the green light to sending a multinational force to Haiti, led by Kenya. However, this decision arouses criticism within the country. In this article, we will examine the different perspectives on this deployment and analyze the arguments put forward by the Kenyan government to justify this mission.
1. Criticisms and concerns:
Many national actors express reservations about the relevance of this mission in Haiti. Some believe that Kenya should focus its efforts on internal security priorities rather than engaging in a mission abroad. Others doubt the ability of Kenyan police officers to operate in a country that is foreign to them and where they do not master the language. These preconceptions are being challenged by Kenyan President William Ruto, who highlights Kenya’s experience in maintaining peace abroad.
2. Kenya’s experience in peacekeeping:
Kenya has a long history of participation in peacekeeping missions around the world. Kenyan security forces have been successfully deployed in countries such as Somalia, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This experience allows Kenya to position itself as a natural leader for this mission in Haiti.
3. The Kenyan government’s response:
President Ruto and the Minister of Home Affairs strongly defended the decision to deploy to Haiti. They underlined the honorary nature of this mission for Kenya and assured that funding would be provided by UN member states. The government also affirmed that the temporary suspension of the deployment by the Kenyan justice system would not prevent preparations from continuing.
Conclusion :
Despite internal criticism, the Kenyan government remains committed to leading the multinational force in Haiti. It highlights Kenya’s experience in peacekeeping and highlights the benefits this will bring to the African nation. The future of this mission will now depend on validation by Parliament and discussions with the United Nations. We therefore remain awaiting future developments regarding the dispatch of the multinational force and Kenya’s contribution to the stabilization of Haiti.