Nearly 20 Kenyan police officers, part of a 400-member force deployed to Haiti under a United Nations-backed Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, have reportedly submitted resignation letters over the past two months. The officers, citing delayed payments and challenging working conditions, have yet to receive any acknowledgment of their resignations and continue to work, according to sources speaking anonymously to Reuters.
The MSS mission, which began in June, aims to combat escalating gang violence in Haiti by assembling a 2,500-strong multinational force. Kenya agreed to lead the effort, deploying 400 officers initially. However, the mission has been plagued by staffing shortages, insufficient funding, and logistical hurdles. Despite commitments from multiple nations, only a few officers from other contributing countries have joined the effort, and Kenyan President William Ruto’s pledge to send an additional 600 officers in November has not materialized.
Resignation Crisis
The resignations started in October after officers who verbally expressed their intent to step down were instructed to submit written requests. By November, at least 18 officers, including five senior officials and a unit commander, had filed resignation letters. These resignations highlight the growing dissatisfaction among personnel over working conditions and financial uncertainties.
Disputed Payments
Kenya’s national police chief, Douglas Kanja, addressed media reports during a Wednesday press conference, claiming that officers had been compensated through October. However, several officers dispute this, stating they have not been paid since September. Despite their grievances, the officers remain on duty as their resignation letters have gone unacknowledged.
Mission in Crisis
The MSS mission has struggled to gain momentum, with recruitment falling short of its target and operational funding lagging. These setbacks have raised concerns about the mission’s long-term viability and effectiveness. For the officers on the ground, these challenges, coupled with the lack of financial support, have led to significant frustration and attrition.
The Kenyan government and the United Nations have yet to provide detailed responses to the reported resignations and alleged payment delays. The situation underscores the complex and precarious nature of international peacekeeping missions, particularly in regions grappling with entrenched violence and instability.
As the MSS mission continues to face critical challenges, the future of Kenya’s leadership role and the broader international response to Haiti’s crisis remain uncertain.
Sources: Reuters
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