The Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) in Haiti has dismissed claims that members of its contingent have resigned over delayed payment of allowances.
Reports initially carried by Reuters suggested that 20 officers had tendered their resignations two months ago due to unpaid salaries but were yet to receive responses from authorities.
MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge categorically denied the allegations, calling them “inaccurate and malicious.”
In a statement, he emphasised that all personnel deployed in Haiti have received their salaries and allowances in full. He also affirmed the team’s dedication to the mission.
“The reports, initially attributed to Reuters News, alleged dissatisfaction among MSS personnel deployed in Haiti. The MSS categorically refutes these claims, the information being disseminated is both inaccurate and malicious,” Otunge stated.
Kenya’s Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, also addressed the matter during a press conference in Nairobi, confirming that all officers had been paid up to October.
“Our officers in Haiti have received their payment up to the end of October,” Mr Kanja stated.
The MSS mission, officially launched on June 25, 2024, is part of a UN-approved initiative to stabilise Haiti, which is grappling with widespread gang violence.
The Kenyan-led force currently has 400 personnel deployed, with plans to increase Kenya’s contribution to 1,000 officers as part of the 2,500-strong international team. Other participating nations include Bangladesh, Jamaica, and Barbados.
During a September visit to Haiti, Kenyan President William Ruto announced plans to send an additional 600 police officers to support efforts to combat criminal gangs dominating the capital, Port-au-Prince, and its surroundings.
