Kenya’s President William Ruto called for reforms to the United Nations Security Council, demanding at least two permanent African seats with full voting rights, including the power to veto, as well as two additional non-permanent seats. Speaking at the UN’s annual high-level debate, Ruto emphasized that Africa contributes significantly to the Security Council’s agenda, provides some of the largest peacekeeping forces, and bears heavy costs from regional instability, yet remains the only continent without permanent representation. He stressed that Security Council reform is essential not as a favor to Africa, but for the relevance and survival of the UN, which must reflect contemporary global realities rather than post-World War II power structures.
Turning to Kenya’s role in Haiti, Ruto highlighted the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, authorized by the UN Security Council in October 2023, to address gang violence in Port-au-Prince. He described the mission as both a success and a cautionary tale, noting that despite being underfunded, underequipped, and operating below 40 per cent of its authorized strength, it achieved remarkable results. Key accomplishments include restoring government institutions, reopening schools, reducing kidnappings, and resuming operations at Haiti’s airport and seaport. Ruto questioned what more could have been achieved if the international community had acted in full solidarity and urged the Security Council to consolidate these hard-won gains as it considers the mission’s next steps.
Beyond Haiti, Ruto condemned the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and called for the unconditional release of Israeli hostages. He also voiced concern over the ongoing conflict in Sudan and highlighted Kenya’s transition to renewable energy as part of global efforts to combat climate change.
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