Haiti is witnessing a major shift in its security landscape as UN-backed forces take full control, signaling the beginning of the collapse of notorious gangs that have long terrorized the nation. Kenyan Police Commander Godfrey Otunge, who has been at the forefront of operations, confirmed on Wednesday, November 19, that the transition from the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) to the newly formed Global Stabilisation Force (GSF) is part of a comprehensive restructuring aimed at dismantling criminal networks.
Otunge highlighted the effectiveness of joint operations between the Haitian National Police (PNH), the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd’H), and the GSF. “This was not a cosmetic shift or a change in name. It is a complete reorganisation of Haiti’s security machinery,” he said, emphasizing that the forces are now fully equipped to conduct intelligence-led operations on land, sea, and air.
The Kenyan commander described recent gang threats and public acts of defiance as “the last kicks of a dying horse,” indicating desperation rather than strength. Combined forces have reportedly disrupted criminal networks, seized weapons, and neutralized resisting armed elements. “There is no safe haven left. This is not rhetoric; it is what is happening on the ground today and now,” Otunge added.
The GSF’s formation follows a United Nations Security Council vote on September 30 approving Resolution 2783, which transitioned MSSM operations to a more robust and heavily armed stabilisation force. While Kenya’s leadership role in the mission has ended, the country continues to contribute personnel under the new structure. The GSF is authorised to operate for 12 months with logistical and political backing from the UN Support Office and the Organisation of American States (OAS).
US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz expressed confidence that the GSF offers Haiti renewed hope. “That hope has been slipping away as gangs expanded their territory, raped, pillaged, murdered, and terrorized the Haitian population. The very existence of the Haitian state is at stake,” he said.
With the new GSF operations underway, experts suggest that Haiti could finally begin reclaiming stability and restoring security for its communities.
