The Haitian government has endorsed a United States-backed proposal seeking major reforms to the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission, in a move that could shift leadership of the force and expand its mandate.
In a statement released by Prime Minister Alix Dider Fils-Aimé’s office, Port-au-Prince described the U.S. draft resolution as “a decisive step” toward restoring order in a country grappling with armed gangs. Haiti said the changes would not only bolster national stability but also contribute to wider regional security.
“Haiti is convinced that the adoption and rapid implementation of this draft resolution will reflect the collective will of the international community to support the Haitian people in their legitimate aspiration for security, peace, dignity, and democracy,” the government stated.
The reforms under discussion at the U.N. Security Council could see leadership of the MSS transition from Kenya to another state, while troop numbers rise beyond 5,000. The expanded mandate is expected to cover arrests, intelligence operations, and dismantling of gangs.
Haiti’s endorsement strengthens support already expressed by the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), both pushing for a wider mission framework and a U.N. Support Office for Haiti.
Kenya currently has about 1,000 officers deployed in the Caribbean nation. However, plans to send additional contingents have stalled following U.S. budget cuts, despite Washington being one of the mission’s primary funders.
The Kenya-led force was first deployed in October 2024 with a one-year renewable mandate. With the current term ending this month, ongoing negotiations will determine whether the mission is restructured, expanded, or placed under new leadership.
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