2026-02-08

Gap Kenya announced it will begin reducing its police deployment in Haiti after completing what it considers the primary objective of stabilizing the country, initiating a transition from the Multinational Security Support mission to the United Nations-authorized Gang Suppression Force. Kenya Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'Oei confirmed the handover stating that Kenya has fulfilled its role in initial stabilization. The MSS currently fields approximately 735 Kenyan officers within a total force of roughly 1,000 personnel drawn from multiple contributing countries. The Gang Suppression Force was authorized under UN Security Council Resolution 2793 passed with Chapter VII enforcement powers to conduct proactive counter-gang operations to neutralize, isolate, and deter gangs independently or in coordination with Haiti National Police and armed forces. The force has an authorized ceiling of 5,550 personnel representing a substantial increase over MSS strength. The GSF received a 12-month authorization with UN Support Office coordination and passed with 12 votes in favor and three abstentions from Russia, China, and Pakistan. US Ambassador Mike Waltz stated the GSF is designed to correct MSS shortcomings. The gap between MSS drawdown initiation and GSF achievement of full operational capacity creates a critical vulnerability window likely extending through mid-2026. Current GSF personnel levels remain far below the 5,550 authorized ceiling and the timeline for recruitment, deployment, and operational readiness is uncertain. Police operations supported by the MSS have reopened some roads in Port-au-Prince and Artibonite Department and gradually restored state presence around Champ de Mars, but BINUH head Ruiz-Massieu cautioned that such gains remain fragile and risk reversal without sustained pressure and basic service delivery. The security force transition occurs during the most significant governance disruption since the February 08, 2026 February 2024 gang uprising that triggered the CPT's formation. Armed gangs control an estimated 85-90% of Port-au-Prince and have expanded into Artibonite, Centre, and Northwest departments. Gang violence killed over 10,000 people during the CPT's 22-month tenure with murder rates rising approximately 20% in 2025 compared to 2024. The Viv Ansanm coalition remains the dominant force despite internal fractures over kidnapping disputes that triggered deadly clashes in December 2025.