Rapid Expansion of Haitian Police Needed – PM

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says a rapid expansion of manpower and resources in the Haitian national police is urgently needed to combat gangs that have overrun sections of that country.

“The extraordinary humanitarian, civil, and national security challenges in Haiti pose an acute threat to Haitians, regional stability and, indeed, to its close neighbours, including Jamaica,” Dr. Holness said.

The Prime Minister was speaking during a joint press conference, which followed bilateral talks with United States (US) Secretary of State, Hon. Marco Rubio, at the Office of the Prime Minister in Kingston, on Wednesday (March 26).

He indicated that while multilateral support is crucial in addressing the ongoing crises in Haiti, the Haitian police must take the lead.

“Ultimately, the Haitian national police have to take on the gangs. The present holding situation that we have is not necessarily moving the situation forward as we would all like. So, there would have to be a significant expansion in resources in support of the Haitian police to enable them to take on the gangs,” Dr. Holness said.

He noted that in his discussions with Mr. Rubio, it was agreed that Jamaica and the US must do everything they can to stabilise the security situation in Haiti, so that the nation is better able to build capacity and address its political and humanitarian challenges.

“We look forward to continued partnership with the United States as we seek to work with Haitian leadership and stakeholders to address the ongoing crises in Haiti,” the Prime Minister said.

He added that the US has been an incredible partner in ensuring that resources are made available to address the crises in Haiti.

While Secretary Rubio did not comment on the ongoing situation in Haiti, he noted that criminal organisations continue to present a challenge in nations such as Mexico, Venezuela, Colombia, Haiti and Jamaica.