The Multinational Security Support (MSS) has firmly dismissed claims that some Kenyan police officers deployed to Haiti have resigned due to delayed pay and poor working conditions.
These allegations followed a Friday report by Reuters stating that nearly 20 of the 400 Kenyan officers serving on the U.N.-backed anti-gang mission in Haiti had left the force in recent months.
In response, MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge released a statement on Saturday, calling the report “inaccurate and malicious.”
He clarified that all deployed officers have received their salaries and allowances, and none of them has resigned.
Commander Otunge strongly criticized Reuters for not seeking MSS input before publishing the claims. He explained that the information circulating was baseless and urged media outlets to verify facts directly with MSS.
“The MSS categorically refutes these claims,” the statement read. “All MSS personnel have been paid, including their monthly allowances. No officer has tendered their resignation as alleged.”
The commander further assured that Kenyan officers in Haiti remain motivated and committed to their mission.
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He emphasized that they are actively supporting the Haitian National Police in dismantling gang networks and restoring stability.
To improve accuracy, he encouraged journalists to reach out to MSS for clarification on mission-related matters.
“We urge local and international media to confirm information directly with MSS before publishing. Transparency remains our priority,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming the MSS’s commitment to its mission, stating, “We remain resolute in helping Haiti reclaim peace and security for its people.”
Earlier allegations
Reuters, however, based its report on interviews with three anonymous officers. These sources alleged that colleagues began resigning in October, with at least 18 letters submitted by November.
They also claimed the resignations included senior officers, such as a unit commander. Kenya has led the MSS since deploying 400 officers in June, with plans to send 600 more.
However, staffing and funding challenges, as well as limited contributions from other countries, have slowed the mission’s progress.
