The new Minister for Defence, Win Bakri Daki is prioritizing the welfare of defense force personnel as he takes office to take care of matters of defence and national security.
In his opening speech as the new minister, he said the matter of soldiers pay will be looked at and if possible, review the pay structure.
This is to ensure that defense force personnel and their families are taken care of, so that they concentrate on their duties to the nation and the people.
“It is my priority to make sure that you are well paid, you have housing and equipment to do your jobs. I will work closely with the chief of defence force to achieve this for you,” said the new minister.
“For the department of defence, your duty is to provide strategic guidance and financial and administration support to the PNG defense force. Be open and honest in your support.
He stressed this because with the 2022 National Election coming up in a few months time, the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) must be ready to once again work with the other disciplinary organization achieve a successful election. You have a very important task ahead of you.
The security of our national election is essential for our democracy to thrive, he said.
Meanwhile, the new minister was officially received yesterday Friday 12th February, at a parade at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby.
On hand to receive the new minister was the Commander of Defense Force (CDF) Major General Mark Goina, the Defense Secretary Mr. Hari John Akipe, the senior leadership of the PNGDF, heads of other disciplinary organisation and the International Defence Advisors Corp.
The new minister later thanked Prime Minister James Marape and his government for having confidence in him and appointing him as the Minister for Defence.
Picture 1- The new Defence Minister inspecting the guard during the welcoming parade at Murray Barracks Picture 2- Defence Minister Win Bakri Daki Picture 3- The welcoming parade at Murray Barracks