
Just two weeks after the arrival of the Guatemalan contingent in Haiti for the MSS Mission, Toussaint Louverture International Airport was bustling with activity as a Kenya Airways flight landed, carrying the third Kenyan contingent joining the MSS.
The contingent was warmly received at the airport by a distinguished delegation, including Presidential Advisor Fritz Alphonse Jean, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, Minister of Justice and Public Security Patrick Pélissier, Secretary of State for Public Security Mario Andrésol, Haitian Police Director General Normil Rameau, MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge, U.S. Ambassador Dennis B. Hankins, and Canadian Ambassador André François Giroux. Leading the Kenyan delegation were Joseph Boinet (Deputy National Security Advisor), Gilbert Masengeli (DIG-Administration Police Service), and Ranson Lolmodooni (SAIG Commandant, General Service Unit).
Speaking at the event, Joseph Boinet expressed gratitude to the Haitian government for its close bilateral relations with Kenya, emphasizing Kenya’s commitment to fostering peace and helping Haiti regain its former glory. He announced plans to open a Kenyan consulate in Haiti to strengthen these ties. Boinet also thanked international stakeholders, particularly the United States, Canada, and France, for their invaluable support of the MSS Mission.
Gilbert Masengeli, delivering a speech on behalf of Kenya’s Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja Kiricho, commended the MSS officers for their outstanding efforts despite the challenges they face. He reminded the personnel of the need to uphold the highest standards of conduct, including zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, avoiding misconduct, and refraining from working under the influence of alcohol or drugs. He urged the officers to serve as exemplary ambassadors for their respective nations and to maintain the level of excellence necessary to fulfill their mandate. Masengeli also acknowledged the unwavering support of the Haitian government and the international community, reiterating Kenya’s dedication to Haiti’s journey toward stability and progress.
Presidential Advisor Fritz Alphonse Jean welcomed the Kenyan contingent, thanking Kenya for being the first country to assist Haiti during this difficult time. He expressed confidence in the MSS, highlighting that Haiti had reached a critical turning point. He announced plans for a “war corrective budget” (Budget rectificatif de guerre) prioritizing security measures to combat armed gangs and restore order.
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé praised Kenya for its sacrifice and commitment in sending highly skilled personnel to assist Haiti. He emphasized the significance of the new deployment, which underscores the government’s and international community’s determination to eradicate armed gangs and restore state authority. He also stressed the importance of close collaboration between the MSS and Haitian National Police (PNH), noting that a stronger MSS directly supports a stronger PNH.
The arrival of the third Kenyan contingent marks a significant boost to the MSS Mission, reinforcing its operational strength as the Mission enters a decisive phase in its fight to restore peace and security.
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