Defence commander warns soldiers to remain neutral

DEFENCE Force commander Brigadier-General Gilbert Toropo has warned soldiers to “remain neutral” in the current political climate.
Toropo said it was the responsibility of the constabulary to look after security during the sittings of parliament.
“Unless and until the situation warrants the need for soldiers to assist the police, the police commissioner will request our support through the National Executive Council,” he said.
“But it is the duty of police to provide security during sittings, not Defence. So I strongly advice soldiers to remain neutral.”
He also denied that soldiers had pulled out of security duties in Hela following the resignation of Hela Governor Philip Undialu, Tari Pori MP James Marape and Komo-Margarima MP Manasseh Makiba from the People’s National Congress Party.
Toropo told The National that it was a routine rotation exercise.
“The troops that left Hela have been on the ground for over four months. They have to go back home and visit their families. New troops have been sent in. It was just a routine rotation that caused a lot of misunderstanding.”
Toropo said it was their duty to maintain law and order in the province and they would continue to do that.