Haiti's political crisis has prompted the United States to request Kenya's assistance in sending police officers to help restore order in the gang-ridden nation. The US has allocated an additional $100 million to the $200 million it had previously pledged for the mission. President Ruto and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken have held multiple phone calls to ensure the mission remains on track. The US is motivated by its desire to prevent Haitians from adding to the influx of migrants crossing the US border. The country has experienced a significant increase in asylum-seekers from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, with the majority being Haitians. By stabilizing Haiti, the US hopes to encourage Haitians to remain in their home country. The US has a historical interest in Haiti, dating back to the early 20th century when it sent marines to restore order and maintain stability. The US occupation ended in 1934, but the country has maintained economic ties with Haiti. After the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, the US turned to the United Nations and pledged financial assistance for the mission in Haiti, which now involves Kenya.
First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto has announced the formation of a prayer strategy team to pray for the Kenyan police officers who will be deployed to Haiti. Mama Rachel made the announcement during the launch of the 'Fourth Man' EP at the Weston Hotel. She emphasized the need for prayers and stated that the government cannot allow the officers to leave for Haiti without being prayed for. The prayer strategy team will consist of pastors from Haiti and America. This initiative highlights the importance of spiritual support and the recognition of the risks involved in the peacekeeping mission. President William Ruto previously announced a plan to deploy a reconnaissance mission to Haiti once a viable administration is in place. The mission aims to respond effectively to the ongoing violence in Haiti. There is ongoing diplomatic pressure for a UN-backed team to be deployed to Haiti as soon as possible.
Ayub Abdikadir, a reporter for Citizen TV, confronted both U.S. President Joe Biden and Kenyan President William Ruto at the White House, demanding an explanation for why the United States is committing Kenya to deploy soldiers in Haiti while ending its peacekeeping mission in Afghanistan. Abdikadir argued that Kenya is already overwhelmed with peacekeeping missions in South Sudan, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In response, Biden stated that the U.S. wants to assist Haiti in a way that won't look like America is trying to impose its will on other countries. Ruto defended Kenya's deployment, stating that it is about the country's belief in peace. The National Police Service of Kenya was also set to deploy the first batch of police officers to Haiti for a peacekeeping mission.
In a separate development, President Uhuru Kenyatta is paying his staff from his own pocket amid a dispute with the government over his office. The government has declined to lease Uhuru's former residence as his private office, and he has been denied the vehicles he is entitled to. Uhuru's spokesperson, Kanze Dena, stated that the former president is now paying his staff and using an office within his private compound in Nairobi. This move by President Kenyatta demonstrates his commitment to ensuring that his staff are taken care of despite the ongoing dispute with the government. The dispute over Uhuru's office comes as his former deputy, William Ruto, visited the US and signed agreements with President Joe Biden. The US is seeking to strengthen its influence in Africa and counter the growing influence of China.
Ghanaian media personality and musician Blakk Rasta revealed that he turned down an offer of American citizenship from former President Barack Obama. Obama extended the offer during his visit to Ghana. Blakk Rasta declined, citing his dedication to serving his country and not wanting to abandon his responsibilities to Ghana. He expressed anger towards politicians who he believes are responsible for the country's problems, stating that they prioritize looting over development. Blakk Rasta emphasized his commitment to fixing Ghana and expressed concern for the future of his children in a struggling economy. The interview took place during an interview with Property FM. [b646d23c]