In a statement on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, MSSM promised to restore stability and provide crucial support to the Haitian government amidst the current political and security situations.
“This mission remains committed to its key mandates by ensuring that it offers support to the Haitian National Police (HNP). Unlike previous interventions in Haiti, this mission has a focused approach on security reinforcement and capacity building rather than direct governance,” the statement read in part.
MSSM however laments that the gangs in Haiti have changed their modus operandis by burning houses to instill fear, forcing locals to flee so that they can reclaim their perceived territories.
MSSM now says its security operations are currently being focused at Toussaint Louverture International Airport (TLIA), Carrefour Drouillard, Cazeau, Carrefour l’aeroport, IGHNP Building, National Port Authority (APN), Champ de Mars, Solino, Fort National, National Police College, Pont Sonde, Carrefour Paye, l’Estere, La Croix and Petite Riviere, Vivi Mitchell, Downtown, Delmas, Torcelle, Bourdon, Christ Roi and Verreux Fuel Terminal.
The mission, led by Kenyan police officers in support of the Haitian National Police (HNP), is primarily tasked with tackling the pervasive gang violence that has engulfed Port-au-Prince and other key regions.
“The capacity building is at the core of the MSSM. The mission includes training and logistical support for the HNP, which has struggled with limited resources and personnel in its attempts to combat the escalating violence. Enhanced training, strategic advisory, and improved equipment are expected to boost HNP’s effectiveness in law enforcement,” the statement added.
The international mission has also been tasked with providing security escorts and establishing safe corridors to ensure that aid can reach vulnerable populations without interference from armed groups.
“Although not directly involved in governance and internal political dynamics, the mission’s role in stabilizing the security environment is expected to create the conditions necessary for political dialogue and eventual elections. By reducing violence, the MSSM hopes to enable a more conducive environment for political reforms and democratic processes,” MSSM added.
While the mission is led by a coalition of willing states, MSSM operates under the broader framework of the UN Security Council mandate.
The update comes amid reports of several airlines suspending flights to Haiti after a passenger plane from the US was hit by gunfire as it tried to land in Port-au-Prince.
A flight attendant suffered minor injuries but no passengers were hurt in the attack, the second in three weeks on aircraft flying over Haiti’s capital.
