Professor Jean-Marie Théodat spoke about the upcoming deployment of the Gang Repression Force (FRG) in Haiti, scheduled for the coming months. Speaking on Magik9 on Friday, April 24, 2026, he explained that the Chadian contingents set to join the FRG are more battle-hardened than the Kenyan troops and are ready to engage in combat even at the risk of their lives.
Théodat highlighted the military experience of these soldiers, noting that Chad has resisted Libyan offensives for years and has taken part in various operations alongside Western powers.
He also stressed that beyond troop numbers, the deployment of the FRG requires significant logistical preparation as well as a proper strategic environment. During his appearance on the program Panel Magik, he argued that the force cannot rely solely on a strictly “repressive” approach. According to him, alternatives must be offered to young people willing to demobilize, while also targeting the arms supply networks of armed groups.
“There must be measures to stop weapons from entering the country and peaceful exit options for young people who want to lay down their arms,” Théodat said, emphasizing that the solution to the security crisis cannot be purely military.
He further called for the establishment of strong national security forces to ensure the long-term stability of the Haitian state.
The FRG is expected to be deployed in Haiti “in phases” over the coming months, according to special representative Jack Christofides on Thursday, April 23. During his trip to the United States, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé confirmed to Le Nouvelliste that 700 Chadian soldiers out of a total of 1,500 have already arrived in Port-au-Prince. Around 5,500 soldiers and police officers are expected to be deployed in Haiti as part of this mission.
