The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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A Kenyan delegation has met with Laurent Saint-Cyr, the newly elected head of Haiti’s transitional presidential council, to discuss ongoing efforts to combat rampant gang violence in the Caribbean nation.
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The team, led by Deputy National Security Adviser Joseph Boinnet and Kenya’s Consul General to Haiti Noor Gabow, was joined by Godfrey Otunge, head of the UN-backed Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS). Saint-Cyr expressed approval of MSS operations despite continued clashes among gangs vying for control of Port-au-Prince.
Boinnet’s visit is part of a review of the 800 Kenyan police officers currently leading the MSS. The UN will next month consider renewing the mission’s mandate, with plans underway to send additional Kenyan personnel. Since June 25, 2024, the officers have conducted 24-hour patrols and secured key infrastructure.
Saint-Cyr Assumes Leadership in Crisis
Saint-Cyr, elected on August 7, leads the council tasked with restoring order in a capital where gangs control 90% of neighbourhoods. His leadership, alongside Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, marks the first time Haiti’s private sector has simultaneously held both top government posts. Saint-Cyr comes from an insurance background, while Fils-Aimé has roots in the tech industry.
US Targets Gang Leader “Barbecue”
Haiti’s security crisis intensified as US prosecutors charged Jimmy Cherizier—alias “Barbecue”—and US citizen Bazile Richardson with soliciting diaspora funds to arm gangs, violating sanctions. Cherizier, accused of killings, kidnappings, and infrastructure attacks, is wanted by the US, which has offered a $5 million reward for his capture.
Humanitarian Situation Worsens
Gang violence has deepened Haiti’s humanitarian crisis, with UN data showing 5.7 million people—over half the population—facing severe food insecurity and more than one million displaced. International efforts continue to curb violence and prevent further deterioration.
