Former U.S. Special Envoy for Haiti, Dan Foote, has raised doubts regarding Kenya's proposed deployment of 1,000 police officers to strife-torn Haiti, suggesting that the troop size falls short of what's necessary to address the security challenges plaguing the Caribbean nation.

In an interview with CNN, Foote emphasized the historical context of military interventions in Haiti, noting that successful missions typically involved a deployment of at least 20,000 troops or police forces.

"A thousand isn't going to cut it, and even if they double or triple that, it still wouldn't be sufficient. Previous interventions in Haiti have seen a minimum of 20,000 troops or police," Foote remarked.

Expressing concern over public reluctance in Kenya towards supporting the mission, Foote speculated on the underlying motives behind Kenya's leadership in the proposed security mission.

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"The hesitancy among the Kenyan public to endorse this deployment is worrisome," he remarked, hinting at a financial incentive-driven agenda led by President Ruto rather than genuine peacekeeping endeavors.

"I believe this is more of a financial opportunity for President Ruto, with his country poised to gain substantially from this venture," Foote asserted.

Foote also cautioned against underestimating the formidable resistance Kenyan troops might face from well-armed Haitian gangs, particularly in light of potential political developments in the region.

"The Haitian gangs are heavily armed, and if there's any imposition of the proposed Caricom government, they will fiercely oppose Kenyan forces," Foote warned.

The U.S. government initially pledged $100 million to support the Kenyan-led multinational force aimed at restoring security in Haiti, while urging other nations to contribute similarly.

However, last week, Kenya announced a temporary halt to the deployment plan following developments in Haiti, including the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry amidst escalating gang violence.

"The situation in Haiti has drastically changed due to the breakdown of law and order and the PM's resignation," explained Korir Sing'oei, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs.

Despite the pause, Sing'oei affirmed Kenya's commitment to providing leadership in the Multinational Security Support mission sanctioned by the UN Security Council.

President William Ruto, meanwhile, maintains the government's resolve to proceed with the Haiti mission, underscoring Kenya's dedication to international peacekeeping efforts.