Turn of Events As Haitians Questions Effectiveness of Kenyan Police Amid Growing Violence
Turns of events as Haitians raise questions over Kenyan police officers’ capability in tackling Haiti’s notorious criminal gangs.
Initially, the Kenyans were warmly welcomed by both the Haitian government and local media. Radio Independante FM, a popular station in Haiti, greeted the Kenyans in Creole, declaring, “Haiti is the country of all Africans. Since you are black, Haiti is your home… You Kenyan soldiers are at home and must be welcomed to help fight these wasters [the gangs] that prevent us from living in our country.”
Despite joint patrols with Haitian police in Port-au-Prince, the gangs have been seen stronger than before including the recent attack and burning of police stations.
Local media and social platforms have become hotbeds of criticism, with calls for “actions not words” and demands for “concrete results.” With some even labelling them as “tourists” rather than peacekeepers.
On July 30, a Kenyan police officer was shot in the shoulder during a shoot out with gang members in Port-au-Prince.
The Haitian police chief, Rameau Normil, and Kenyan commander Godfrey Otunge, held a press conference announcing the deaths of over 100 “bandits” during joint operations under a state of emergency.
However, interim Prime Minister Garry Conille has remained supportive of the Kenyan presence.
In an interview with BBC HARDtalk, he acknowledged the need for external assistance given the PNH’s limited manpower. “We do need the help… yet it’s coming in too slow, and Haitians are growing impatient,”