Haiti marked the operational launch of the Gang Suppression Force on Thursday, October 8, with a flag-raising ceremony at the Vertières military base in Tabarre.

Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé attended with members of the government, the high command of the Armed Forces of Haiti, diplomats and United Nations representatives. “The State must regain control of its territory,” he said.

Representatives of the six countries that currently contribute personnel, Guatemala, El Salvador, Chad, Mongolia, Jamaica and Sri Lanka, reaffirmed their support for Haitian forces. The contingents gave military demonstrations.

Fils-Aimé said the force's work must help retake areas held by armed groups, protect civilians and restore order. He added that security alone will not stabilize the country. He said it must go with stronger institutions, a stronger justice system and restored public services, which he called essential to holding free and credible elections.

The force replaces the earlier Multinational Security Support mission. It has about 1,600 personnel, well short of its planned strength, and the UN Security Council extended its mandate last month through March 31, 2027. Earlier this week the force said it carried out operations in Tabarre and Cité Soleil.