Guinea Ready to Contribute to Securing Haiti
Guinea’s Commitment
On Saturday, Guinea announced its willingness to send 650 police officers and gendarmes to Haiti to support security in the country. This decision is part of the international commitment to help the Haitian police, which faces major challenges.
Context of the Multinational Mission
In October 2023, the UN Security Council approved the deployment of a Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MMAS) to strengthen the capacity of the Haitian police. The first Kenyan contingents were deployed in June, with a target of 2,500 personnel by January.
Challenges to Overcome
Despite these efforts, the operation faces challenges, including a lack of funding and equipment. In this context, the Haitian authorities and the United States are considering transforming MMAS into a real peacekeeping mission.
Statements by the Guinean Prime Minister
During his speech at the United Nations General Assembly, Guinean Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah said: “We have actively participated in peacekeeping efforts under the auspices of the United Nations and we will continue to do so.” He also stressed Guinea’s willingness to provide assistance in stabilizing Haiti, which has been described as a “martyrdom.”
History of Guinean Contributions
Guinea had previously committed a battalion of 650 men and women to the MINUSMA peacekeeping mission in Mali, which withdrew at the end of 2023 at the request of the ruling junta. Currently, Guinea is participating with ten police officers and five experts in UN missions in the Central African Republic and Western Sahara.
Political situation in Guinea
Since the September 2021 coup, Guinea has been ruled by a military regime. Although the authorities have promised to return power to elected civilians by the end of 2024, this deadline seems compromised. The Prime Minister reaffirmed the project of “refounding” the Guinean state without mentioning an electoral calendar.
Conclusion
Guinea’s willingness to send forces to Haiti demonstrates its commitment to international peace and security. However, the challenges facing the mission underscore the need for increased cooperation and additional resources to ensure the operation is successful. Guinea’s internal political situation remains a concern, with promises of a transition to civilian rule still unfulfilled.
