Both parties disputed the rumors of a strained relationship between them. Godfrey Otunge, the commander of the MMS, made this known on Sunday, as reported by the Star.
He revealed that the PNH and the MSS always coordinate and carry out police operations collaboratively, as per the Multinational Security Support Mission’s mandate, which is to assist the Haitian National Police in the battle against gangs in Haiti.
“Regarding the allegations that Kenyan police officers accuse their PNH counterparts of colluding with gangs, which sometimes weakens operations, the Haitian National Police and the Multinational Security Support Mission wish to categorically call upon the local population not to be intoxicated by this misinformation and manipulations that are only aimed to discredit the good work the two joint forces are doing to the advantage of the criminal gangs,” he said.
“Equally important is to inform the local and international community that the Haitian National Police and the MSS teams work harmoniously, cooperate, and coordinate very well as two professional teams to ensure that the Haitian people enjoy peace in the country,” the commander added.
He also made it known that the tactic to drive division between both security agencies would do nothing to deter them from their original goal, which is to eliminate gang violence in the Caribbean country.
“The PNH and the MSS will continue to work together to ensure the security of the Haitian population while reiterating their determination to fight armed gangs to their last entrenchments,” he stated.
On Friday, the MSS, had also denied allegations of a dispute over unpaid wages.
A report by Aljazerra showed revealed that the MSS “categorically” refuted rumors that officers were being owed a 3 month salary.
“All MSS personnel have received their salaries, including monthly allowances, and no MSS officer has tendered their resignation as alleged,” the statement reads.
“MSS officers remain highly motivated and fully committed to supporting the Haitian National Police [HNP] in conducting decisive operations aimed at dismantling gang networks and restoring stability.”
MSS mission in Haiti
In July 2023, Kenyan President William Ruto pledged to send 1,000 troops to the Caribbean island to assist bring law and order to the country that is ruled by criminals.
Kenya sent its first deployment of 400 security police personnel in June 2024.
Two dozen Jamaican military and police officers consequently traveled to Haiti to support the peacekeeping effort.
