Kenya’s police have begun selection of officers ahead of the planned deployment to Haiti, which still needs parliamentary approval.
A document seen by the head of the police force requests with urgency a list of names from the General Service Unit – the paramilitary wing of the police force.
It also details the requirements needed by the prospective officers.
These include:
Minimum of five years service
Aged between 20 and 55 years old
Proficiency in English
And ability to handle firearms safely
The Kenyan constitution requires the government to get the go-ahead from parliament before deploying forces internationally.
Discussions among MPs could not begin last week as there were not enough lawmakers present.
Speaking on Sunday, Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki said there would be no shortcuts or violation of the constitution when it comes to getting approval for the deployment.
Kenya had offered to lead a multinational police force to the Caribbean nation to quell mounting gang violence. The country pledged 1,000 of its officers to help restore order.
The UN Security Council gave the green light to the mission following a call for help from the Haitian government.