Holness and Conille Address Haiti’s Security Crisis at UN General Assembly

Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille met with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness at the UN General Assembly to discuss the escalating security crisis in Haiti due to gang violence. They emphasized the necessity of Jamaican troop deployment as part of a broader Multinational Security Support mission, led by Kenya, to restore order following former President Jovenel Moise’s assassination in 2021.

During a recent meeting at the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille conversed with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness regarding the critical security challenges facing Haiti amidst ongoing gang violence. The discussions came in light of escalating unrest in areas such as Delmas 24 and Solino, prompting residents to evacuate due to fears for their safety. Conille expressed satisfaction over the commitment from Jamaica to deploy troops as part of a Multinational Security Support mission, which is coordinated with Kenya under a United Nations mandate. This mission aims to restore order in Haiti following the assassination of former President Jovenel Moise in 2021. The dialogue underscored the necessity for international cooperation in combating armed gangs threatening societal stability in Haiti. Prime Minister Holness emphasized Jamaica’s ongoing support and the importance of enhancing assistance to facilitate the restoration of normalcy in the beleaguered nation. Kenyatta’s administration is preparing to augment their troop presence to assist in peacekeeping efforts, with President William Ruto confirming the readiness of an additional 600 troops for deployment. These developments mark a potential turning point in Haiti’s path toward stability.

The situation in Haiti remains critical due to rampant gang violence, which has led to widespread displacement and fear among the populace. Following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021, the establishment of a transitional council aimed to restore governance in the nation, culminating in the appointment of Edgard Leblanc Fils as its head. The local security forces have struggled and increasingly, there has been a call for international assistance, particularly from Caribbean nations and the wider international community. Jamaica’s involvement as part of the Multinational Security Support mission illustrates regional solidarity in facing this humanitarian and security crisis.

In summary, the discussions between Prime Minister Garry Conille of Haiti and Prime Minister Andrew Holness of Jamaica highlight the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to address the multifaceted challenges posed by gang violence in Haiti. The deployment of Jamaican troops alongside those from Kenya aims to restore peace, underscoring the importance of collaboration among Caribbean nations and the international community at large.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com