By GINNAH MINI
THE members of the Promotion and Selection Board (PSB) of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) were sworn in today for a 12-month term at the RPNGC Headquarters in Konedobu, Port Moresby. They will be responsible for considering police officers for promotion, with the aim of strengthening the force’s future leadership.
The three members of PSB are Chairlady, Dame Jean Kekedo, Regga Neggi, Assistant Commissioner of Police for the Policy and Planning Division and Dr. Philip Mitna Deputy Commissioner of Police-Chief of Police Administration.
The event was witnessed by Minister for Police, Sir John Pundari, Police Commissioner David Manning and other senior officers in the department.
Minister for Police, Sir John Pundari encouraged the boards to promote constables who says no to bribery, can fulfill their duties, and upholds loyalty to the force and to the citizens while adding that rank must mean safety for the people of Papua New Guinea, not seniority.
“Every officer promoted must be promoted because he is the best, not because he knows the best: promote courage, integrity, result and nothing else” Sir John said.
Commissioner David Manning acknowledged concerns and criticism regarding how the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) handles promotions, saying that this proceeding would help provide a better understanding of the promotion process.
Mr. Manning said that not everyone in the force is promoted. Instead, promotions are awarded to those who are deserving, suitably qualified, and have consistently demonstrated commitment to their daily duties.
“Those who are deserving, those who are suitably qualified, those who have proven through their commitment to their daily duties-not just because they hear there’s a promotion coming up, but through what they do every day,” he said.
Commissioner Manning added that Papua New Guinea deserves a police force that is a source of identity and pride for the nation. He said this can be achieved through the recognition and promotion of members of the constabulary, from the rank of First Constable through to Assistant Commissioner.