The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary made history today when two females were appointed to the three-member Police Promotion Board.
In a small but significant event attended by Police Minister William Onglo, Police Commissioner David Manning and senior police officers, former diplomat and senior public servant Dame Jean Lucilla Kekedo was appointed Chairperson of the Police Promotions and Appointment Board 2021. Ms Kekedo is Minister Onglo’s nominee.
The other board member is acting Deputy Police Commissioner Administration Joanne Clarkson representing the Police Commissioner. Assistant Commissioner of Police Highlands Eastern-End Anton Billie was also sworn in today as a member of the Police Promotions Board. He is the representative of the Police Union.
Commissioner Manning highlighted that for the first time the Police Promotions and Appointment Board comprises females.
Police Minister Onglo also commended Ms Kekedo for accepting the appointment and urged the board to deliver the best outcome for the Constabulary.
He also commended Commissioner Manning for having the trust and confidence in women in taking up this post once dominated by male officers.
Ms Kekedo thanked Minister Onglo and Commissioner Manning for having the foresight and being transparent in the appointment of the Police promotions board members and vows to deliver accordingly as she is not new to the public service promotion and appointment mechanisms.
The Police Promotion board is expected to convene soon to deliberate on Police promotions for 2021.