Haiti PM States Nation is Far from Winning Gang War as UN Deadline Approaches – Reuters

NEW YORK (Reuters) – Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille expressed on Wednesday that the country faces significant challenges in combating the armed gangs that dominate much of the capital. This statement comes as a United Nations deadline for much-needed support draws near.

"We are nowhere near winning this battle, and the reality is we won’t succeed without your assistance," Conille stated during an event at the United Nations General Assembly. "There is a sense of urgency because the Haitian people are watching with cautious optimism, hoping to see tangible results."

Currently, Haiti is experiencing attacks from gangs at the main port in the capital, which serves as a critical entry point for funding and goods. A shipping official reported that vessels have been shot at, hindering their ability to dock and unload cargo. Additionally, authorities have confirmed the kidnapping of two Filipino crew members from a cargo ship at the port.

Earlier this year, the primary seaports and international airport in Haiti were closed for nearly three months due to escalating violence, which included a surge in prison breaks and the resignation of the last prime minister.

Conille emphasized the importance of immediate global cooperation, warning that without it, the limited progress made at a high cost could be lost.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently announced sanctions against former deputy Prophane Victor and gang leader Luckson Elan due to their involvement in human rights violations. He also declared $160 million in assistance for Haiti and called for increased support for the U.N.-backed international security mission.

"About 10 countries have pledged over 3,100 troops, but only around 400 have been deployed," said Musalia Mudavadi, an official from Kenya, which is leading the mission. With the U.N.’s one-year mandate set to expire in early October, the U.N. Security Council is scheduled to vote on the renewal.

Despite pledges of hundreds of millions of dollars, both the U.N. mission trust fund and the humanitarian plan remain significantly underfunded. Mudavadi noted that current funding levels are insufficient to sustain the existing deployment, let alone the promised troop increases. "We encourage all the countries that have pledged troops to move with speed," he urged.

According to U.N. estimates, the number of internally displaced individuals has nearly doubled over the past six months, exceeding 700,000. Approximately half of the population is facing hunger.

Conille’s administration is also responsible for organizing the first elections since 2016. His predecessor delayed voting, citing insecurity that would prevent a fair election process. The U.S., as the mission’s leading financial supporter, has advocated for elections to be held next year.

Despite the ongoing insecurity, Conille noted that the government is already investing half of the estimated $140 million needed for a constitutional referendum in February and elections in November 2025. He expressed confidence that the elections could proceed as planned but cautioned that this would only be feasible if the commitments needed for the full deployment of the security mission are honored.