Kenyan Police Launch Countermeasure against Haitian Criminal Gangs: Examining Human Rights Allegations
Despite concerns over Kenya's human rights record, the UN has authorized Kenya to lead a multinational force to tackle violent criminal gangs in Haiti, emphasizing the collective moral duty to combat brutal gang violence in the Caribbean nation
The UN decision to allow Kenya to lead an armed multinational force to Haiti, in response to the severe gang violence in the country, has been overshadowed by concerns regarding Kenya's human rights record. The force, consisting of 1000 Kenyan police personnel, is expected to combat the criminal gangs responsible for a series of murders, abductions, and sexual assaults in Haiti for a period of one year.
Human rights groups insist on the thorough evaluation of Kenya's record on human rights violations.
Amnesty International Kenya called on UN member states, human rights organizations, and citizens to diligently scrutinize the "human rights and humanitarian consequences" associated with the deployment of an armed multinational force to Haiti on Tuesday.
Warring gangs control much of Haiti's capital city and main port -- choking off vital supply lines to the rest of the country.
Richard Pierrin/AFP/Getty Images/FILE
UN Security Council approves sending foreign forces to Haiti
Kenya's police force has faced frequent criticism for their aggressive tactics when dealing with demonstrations within the country. Numerous civilians have lost their lives during anti-government protests in Kenya this year.
The Kenya National Civil Society Center has strongly objected to the decision to send the country's police personnel to Haiti, citing allegations of "extrajudicial killings."
"The Kenya Police Service has gained a notorious reputation for its frequent and excessive use of force, facing criticism for numerous cases of extrajudicial killings and arbitrary execution of protestors during recent anti-government demonstrations," said the organization, as quoted by CNN affiliate, Citizen Digital. Uncertainty looms among some Kenyans regarding the true intentions driving the mission.
According to political analyst Herman Manyora, the Kenyan mission to Haiti is considered an "unnecessary risk" and "a big gamble" by many citizens. Manyora suggests that President Ruto's motivation for this mission is to gain favor with the international community and be seen as an African statesman.
A collective moral duty
Nevertheless, according to Kenyan President William Ruto, the results of the vote on Monday were deemed "long-awaited" and "an essential tool" that will "leave a unique mark in the annals of international interventions in Haiti."
In a media statement issued on Tuesday, Ruto expressed his satisfaction at the direct response from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to his call. He referred to his recent speech at the United Nations General Assembly where he emphasized the necessity of establishing a multinational support force framework for Haiti.
Ruto characterized the decision as a significant milestone in the advancement of global multilateralism. He further stated that it allows nations worldwide to fulfill their collective moral obligation of ensuring justice and security for all peoples, regardless of nationality.
"This mission holds a unique importance and urgent necessity for us in Kenya. We have endured the oppressive consequences of colonialism and persevered through a long, arduous, and exasperating fight. Throughout this struggle, we have always been fortunate to have true, loyal, and resolute friends. Today, the people of Haiti, our beloved allies, are in dire need. It is our utmost moral responsibility to truly be their ally by offering our unwavering support," expressed Ruto.
