The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has extended the mandate of the Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti (MSS) to October 2, 2025.
In a statement on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge announced that more contributing countries have reaffirmed their commitment to support the MSS.
“The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), unanimously extended the mandate of MSS Mission to 2nd October 2025 under UNSCR 2751 (2024). MSS stakeholders, actors and Haitian population that include those in the diaspora, welcomed the decision that has seen a re-energized multinational force which is more than ready to combat gang violence in Haiti,” Otunge stated.
Otunge says the MSS, in collaboration with the Haiti National Police (HNP), have sustained both day and night joint patrols in Port-Au-Prince Communes with significant interest and priority at Tabarre, Delmas, Port-au-Prince, Cite Soleil, Croix-Des-Bouquets, Village Solidarite, La saline, the National Palace, Downtown, APN seaport area and the PNH School.
“More joint security operations will continue to ensure that Haitians go on with their businesses unhindered by the gangs whose only option is to down their weapons and surrender to the government to face legal actions,” Otunge added.
Gang attack in Haiti
The announcement follows a gang attack on Thursday, October 2, 2024, at Pont-Sonde in the Artibonite Department where several lives were lost.
“To ensure that there is no repeat of the same, Prime Minister Garry Conille, the Director General Haitian National Police Normil Rameau and MSS Force Commander SAIG Godfrey Otunge promptly mobilized resources and personnel to Pont-Sonde to beef up security and maintain law and order,” Otunge announced.
“MSS is committed to the Haitian people and continues to call for their support as the perpetrators of these heinous acts are hunted down to ensure they face justice. More joint patrols will be sustained at Pont-Sonde.”
Otunge says operations will continue with a special focus on reopening key roads, ensuring security for key critical infrastructure, and pacifying key areas.
“MSS continues to thank all stakeholders and actors for their untiring support for the Mission. Special thanks goes also to the people who have remained steadfast in their support and commitment in ensuring that the Mission achieves its end state. This will see credible and effective Haitian authorities that are empowered with the capacity to maintain security to enable them to hold free and fair elections in a conducive environment,” Otunge added.
