Defence Minister Fabian Pok has reaffirmed the National Executive Council's decision in appointing Colonel Gilbert Toropo as the 11th Commander of the PNG Defence Force, urging the force to respect the decision and bring it back to shape.
Colonel Toropo succeeds former Commander Brigadier General Francis Agwi. Colonel Toropo's appointment took effect January 8th, following National Gazette number G-6 last Tuesday - the same document which revoked the appointment of Brigadier General Agwi. His appointment will be for a four-year period. Colonel Toropo's appointment comes amid public speculation over recent spate of political and legal conflicts between the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader. But Minister Pok says the appointment is merit based, and comes with Government confidence. "The O'Neil-Dion government has total trust in the new commander based on his years of service in the force and I expect your undivided support," Minister Pok said. Colonel Toropo has been asked to set his foot down on disciplinary issues, which has plague the force in recent times. The new commander says he's ready for the big job. "I am committed to realizing a professional and disciplined defence force that the government and the people can depend on. "I have strategies in place, and I will issue my statement of intent and my priorities, during the change of command," Colonel Toropo said. Colonel Toropo will be promoted to the rank of Brigadier General, before officially taking over the command in a parade, at end of the month. PNG Facts/ NBC Comments are closed.
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