By Peter Ochieng
President William Samoei Ruto has shared his stand on the formation of Presidential Transition Council (PTC) in Haiti.
Ruto in a Saturday statement said he supports the move, since it is pencilled on restoring law and order in the Caribbean nation.
“I welcome the formal Proclamation by Decree establishing the Presidential Transition Council (PTC) of the Republic of Haiti,” said Ruto.
“This decision is evident of the collective courage and singular sacrifice of the Haitian Council of Cabinet to forge a Haiti free of violence and to entrench a new democratic administration. We look forward to the PTC moving with speed to appoint the Prime Minister and Cabinet.”
“I commend the leadership of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) for their steadfast stewardship of the intense consultations that led to the establishment of a Presidential Transitional Council that reflects the diverse sections of Haitian society.”
He expressed confidence that through the council, a foundation for new political leadership will be laid.
“Kenya expresses confidence that the new political leadership will lay a strong foundation for resolution of the crisis in Haiti, restoration of security, afford the Haitian people a political transition and usher in sustainable peace and development.”
Last year, Kenya was among countries that agreed to deploy security officers to Haiti, under the United Nations (UN) security mission in a bid to battle organised gangs in the country.
Kenya was ready to deploy 1,000 police officers starting January this year, before the court slammed brakes on the plan.
President Ruto says once the dust settles, Kenya is willing to meet its part of the bargain.
“Kenya reiterates its strong solidarity with Haiti and stands ready to make its contribution within the framework elaborated in the UN Security Council Resolution 2699 of 2023.”
The formation of PTC was occassioned by resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry in March. He agreed to resign following weeks of mounting pressure and increasing violence. He resigned days after visiting Kenya where he held talks with Ruto.
“I’m asking all Haitians to remain calm and do everything they can for peace and stability to come back as fast as possible,” Henry said in a video announcing his resignation.
At the time of his resignation, gangs had prevented him from jetting back in the country from his Kenyan trip.
He had led the country on a supposedly interim basis since July 2021, following former President Jovenel Moïse’s assassination.
Henry was accused of having a hand in repeated postponement of elections.