Haiti’s Prime Minister Garry Conille met with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness at the UN General Assembly to discuss the ongoing security crisis due to rampant gang violence. Both leaders addressed the upcoming deployment of Jamaican troops to Haiti and the need for expanded international support to restore stability in the country. Jamaica is set to participate in a Kenya-led multinational security operation aimed at enhancing peace and security in Haiti following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise.
At the recent 79th United Nations General Assembly held in New York, Prime Minister Garry Conille of Haiti engaged in significant discussions with his Jamaican counterpart, Prime Minister Andrew Holness, regarding the dire security situation in Haiti. Following violent incidents in the Delmas 24 and Solino neighborhoods due to armed gang activity, the need for international support is evident. The transitional ruling council, recently sworn in and led by Edgard Leblanc Fils, is striving to restore order amidst ongoing challenges. During their meeting, Prime Minister Conille expressed gratitude for the anticipated deployment of Jamaican troops who will assist in stabilizing the security environment and protecting the bay of Port-au-Prince. “I was pleased to discuss with Prime Minister Andrew Holness of Jamaica the continued deployment in the coming weeks of Jamaican troops to be part of the mission in Haiti and the equipment promised, particularly to help protect the bay of Port-au-Prince,” said Conille. Both leaders exchanged insights about regional strategies aimed at combating armed gangs, highlighting Jamaica’s commitment to helping Haiti regain stability. Prime Minister Holness emphasized the importance of international collaboration, stating, “our discussions focused on returning stability to Haiti, the support provided so far — including from Jamaica — as well as the expansion of support that is required to return the country to normalcy.” Jamaica is poised to join a multinational security mission led by Kenya, aiming to restore peace following the assassination of former President Jovenel Moise in July 2021. Kenyan President William Ruto has signaled plans to expand this mission into a full-scale United Nations peacekeeping operation, with approximately 1,000 Kenyan troops preparing for deployment to Haiti in the coming weeks.
Haiti has been experiencing escalating gang violence, prompting public safety concerns and a humanitarian crisis. The transitional council, currently in place, is attempting to reestablish an effective governance structure. Political instability has often resulted from violence and crime, severely hindering the country’s development. The involvement of various Caribbean nations, particularly Jamaica, in a multinational security force highlights the regional responsibility to assist Haiti during this crisis. Recent decisions made by leaders in attendance at the UN General Assembly are part of broader efforts to stabilize the nation in the wake of significant political upheaval.
The discussions between Prime Ministers Conille and Holness underscore a collective commitment among Caribbean leaders to address the security challenges facing Haiti. As Jamaica prepares to contribute troops to the multinational mission led by Kenya, the focus remains on restoring order and facilitating a pathway towards normalization for the beleaguered nation. Collaboration among regional partners is critical to achieving sustainable peace in Haiti, especially considering the complex interplay of local violence and political instability that has persisted for years.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
