Haitian gang leader Jimmy ‘Barbecue’ Chérizier is advocating for community dialogue to address violence in Haiti, coinciding with the arrival of Kenyan police officers in Port-au-Prince as part of a UN-backed Multinational Security Support Mission.
In a video released to journalists, Chérizier, speaking in Haitian Creole, expressed confidence in interim Prime Minister Garry Conille‘s ability to implement local solutions to curb violence.
He urged the Prime Minister to lead efforts to pacify Haiti without escalating tensions through the distribution of firearms.
Initially opposed to foreign law enforcement presence, Chérizier reportedly facilitated the withdrawal of some of his gang members from parts of Port-au-Prince. However, he remains critical of the support mission, labeling them as invaders.
Highlighting Prime Minister Conille’s clean record compared to previous Haitian leaders, Chérizier cautioned against listening to traditional politicians who historically armed civilians to destabilize governments.
He stressed the Prime Minister’s role in disarming the population and restoring peace.
Prime Minister Conille, in response to the Kenyan officers’ arrival, expressed optimism about their role in stabilizing Haiti.
Their deployment follows a request by former Prime Minister Ariel Henry in 2022, amid legal challenges in Kenya and ongoing international scrutiny at the UN Security Council.
Chérizier’s statements underscore ongoing tensions in Haiti, where political instability and gang violence have hindered efforts towards effective governance.
The future of the international police mission depends on decisions by the UN Security Council following its initial nine-month mandate, unless extended.
President William Ruto of Kenya formally dispatched the 400 officers, emphasizing Kenya’s commitment to global peacekeeping despite domestic legal complexities.
The situation in Haiti remains dynamic as stakeholders navigate complex challenges to establish enduring peace and security amidst political transitions and external interventions.
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