PNGDF chief denies claims by army wives

PAPUA New Guinea Defence Force commander Brig-Gen Francis Agwi is denying claims the build-up of frustration led to soldiers taking part in the failed mutiny on Jan 26.
Agwi made the denial after the wives of some soldiers who took part in the mutiny claimed that the actions taken by their husbands were a result of growing discontentment over living conditions at the barracks.
The wives of the 1st Royal Pacific Island Regiment (1RPIR) soldiers claimed that among other issues, housing was a big problem for them as a number of soldiers lived in appalling conditions or in settlements.
“Housing is not a must when you join the army. We’ve got a long list of soldiers applying for houses in the barracks,” Agwi said. 
He said houses were given based on rank, promotions, discipline record and the number of dependents.
Agwi, who was put under house arrest for eight hours by his own troops, said the removal of Col Francis Kairi as commanding officer of Taurama Barracks was done in the best interest of the force.
He said because of the mutiny, Kairi had to be removed and a new person replaced him to stabilise the situation and maintain a good public perception.
Agwi refused to comment on the allegations against Kairi, saying Kairi was still a colonel and on full pay.
“We will find him a new job,” he said.
During the arms surrender ceremony last Monday, Agwi announced the promotion of Major Freddy Aile to lieutenant-colonel and his appointment as commanding officer of Taurama  Barracks.