Special Representative Named To Lead U.S.-Backed Force To Dismantle Gangs In Haiti

Jack Christofides was named as the special representative for the U.S.-backed force tasked with dismantling Haitian gangs. The Miami Herald described Christofides as a longtime UN expert on peace building who has worked in complex security environments around the world.

Godrfrey Otunge, who leads the U.S.-backed force, said the man "brings experience in political affairs, peace-building and operational leadership, which will be instrumental in guiding the GSF's efforts to address Haiti's security crisis and lay the groundwork for sustainable peace."

The outlet added that Christofides was recently deputy head of mission for the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), and has also worked as director of the Africa II Division in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations.

The UN Security Council authorized the international force to replace the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support mission, which has struggled to combat the gangs that continue dominating vast swaths of Haiti.

However, it is still uncertain how the force will be funded, deployed and where the 5,500 projected personnel will come from. A pledging conference is expected to take place in New York this month.

In the meantime, attacks by gangs continue. The outlet noted that a group attacked Pont-Sondé, a rural town in central Haiti, forcing thousands to flee the neighborhood as homes burned. At least 10 people died during the attack.

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