The Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission marked its first anniversary in Haiti on Thursday, June 26, 2025.
MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge said the celebration was not merely to mark the passage of time but to reflect on a year of dedicated service, resilient partnership, and tangible progress.
He acknowledged the collective efforts of MSS personnel, the Haitian government, the Haitian National Police (HNP), the people of Haiti, and the international community in the pursuit of a peaceful and stable nation.
Commander Otunge announced plans to establish Forward Operating Bases (FOBs), particularly in key areas of Port-au-Prince.
These bases will serve as strategic hubs for intelligence gathering, rapid threat response, and the protection of critical infrastructure.
He sent a strong warning to gang leaders and their networks, stating clearly that “business as usual” was over.
Commander stressed that MSS is now smarter, more focused, and determined to restore peace and stability for all Haitians.
He appealed for continued partner support and reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful Haiti.
Commander Otunge praised the MSS as a beacon of hope and a symbol of the power of international cooperation.
He extended sincere appreciation to countries that have supported the mission—financially and through in-kind contributions—including the United States, Canada, France, the Dominican Republic, South Korea, Spain, Italy, Germany, Japan, Singapore, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.
Otunge urged other nations of goodwill to join in supporting Haiti during this critical phase of “Decisive Operations.”
Haiti Mission Unique Model
He highlighted the Mission’s unique model, specifically tailored to address Haiti’s gang-related insecurity.
Otunge acknowledged expected challenges, including funding, personnel, and logistics.
However, he assured MSS that the issues were being actively addressed as the country moves toward a referendum and national elections.
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Complaint Reporting Mechanism
He also spoke on the MSS Complaint Reporting Mechanism, a human rights monitoring tool established by the Mission.
The Commander reported that in the past year, there had been no cases of sexual exploitation, abuse, or human rights violations by MSS personneL.
Otunge expressed heartfelt gratitude to Haitian authorities, the HNP, local and international partners, the media, and the people of Haiti for their unwavering support.
Remarks by the President and Special Guests
President of the Republic of Haiti Fritz Alphonse Jean, commended MSS personnel for their service and sacrifice since their deployment.
He called for continued efforts, noting that Haiti’s challenges go beyond gang violence to include drug and arms trafficking—issues that require united international action.
Special Representative Maria Salvador reflected on the Mission’s achievements over the past year, particularly in supporting the Haitian National Police.
She acknowledged the Mission’s incomplete funding and resourcing but stressed that its actions speak volumes.
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“The presence of MSS personnel from Kenya, Guatemala, El Salvador, Jamaica, and the Bahamas demonstrates strong international commitment and the need for sustained global support” she said.
Madam Salvador praised the leadership and professionalism of the MSS and reaffirmed that both the UN and MSS share a common goal.
Madam Salvador welcomed the MSS’s dedication to community violence reduction and its plans for disarmament, disengagement, and reintegration (DDR).
She noted that the anniversary was a moment of pride and renewed determination, emphasising that while the road ahead is difficult, unity of purpose and sustained effort make success possible.
Canada Ambassador
The Canadian Ambassador to Haiti, His Excellency Andre Giroux, expressed his appreciation to the MSS team for their dedication to restoring peace in Haiti despite the challenges the mission has faced over the past year.
He highlighted the gradual return to normalcy and the successful recovery of the IGPNH facility from gang control as a powerful testament to the MSS’s unwavering commitment to a safer and more secure Haiti.
OHCHR Perspective
Representative of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Arnaud Royer, called for stronger collaboration with civil society, particularly in implementing the Complaint Reporting Mechanism and in community engagement activities.
He reiterated OHCHR’s commitment to supporting both MSS and the HNP in integrating human rights into all planning and operations.
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