Haiti’s police chief visits Nairobi amid debates over deployment of 1,000 Kenyan police

Visit by Frantz Elbe marks significant step in bolstering ties between 2 law enforcement agencies as Kenya contemplates contributing to UN-backed peacekeeping mission in Caribbean country

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) - Kenyan police boss Japheth Koome on Wednesday held talks with his Haitian counterpart, who is in Kenya for a three-day official visit.

The visit by Frantz Elbe, set to end on Friday, marks a significant step in bolstering ties between the two law enforcement agencies, particularly as Kenya ponders contributing to a UN-backed peacekeeping mission in the Caribbean country.

A statement from the Kenya National Police Service said the Haitian police chief is leading a Haitian delegation, now in Kenya for “security discussions between the two law enforcement agencies.”

The agenda of the visit is packed with crucial discussions, ranging from knowledge sharing on community policing to exploring potential training opportunities for Haitian officers.

Kenya, with its acclaimed experience in combating violent extremism and organized crime, is seen as a valuable partner for Haiti, a country currently grappling with escalating gang violence and political instability.

The visit coincides with Kenya's ongoing internal debate regarding the proposed deployment of 1,000 police officers to Haiti as part of a United Nations Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS).

While parliament approved the deployment in November, a court injunction has temporarily halted the move.

Haiti has been marred by instability, which worsened significantly following the assassination of President Jovenel Mois by an armed group two years ago.

The acts of violence exacerbated an already dire humanitarian and economic situation in the Caribbean nation.

Port-au-Prince, the capital city, is under the control of various gangs, creating a perilous environment for its residents.

The situation is further compounded by political turmoil, a severe humanitarian crisis, and pervasive poverty, all contributing to a climate of extreme violence.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the US, and other members of the international community have advocated the deployment of an international force in Haiti, all vowing to support Kenya financially.

Kaynak:

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