We will not play politics, say soldiers

National, Normal
Source:

The National, Tuesday 20th December 2011

By GABRIEL LAHOC
THE power struggle in Port Moresby must be dealt with by politicians and should not involve the military, Papua New Guinea Defence Force commander Brig-Gen Francis Agwi says.
That was the message Agwi relayed to all military personnel who have been ordered to stay in camp and obey the normal chain of command in all barracks.
Sectional heads at Igam Barracks, in Lae, pledged their loyalty and vowed not to become involved in the political impasse during the traditional soldiers Christmas luncheon there.
Defence Academy chief instructor Lt-Col Vince Gabina relayed the commander’s message to the soldiers.
Incoming area commander of Igam Barracks Major Ricky Tavapery and Cpl Waibauru Philip, who represented the soldiers, backed the stand.
Tavapery urged the soldiers to ‘leave the Waigani saga to the politicians’, and encouraged them to enjoy this festive season with their families in true Christmas spirit.
“You are all aware of the constitutional crisis in Port Moresby; that is all politics. We, as soldiers, swore to serve the government of the day, serve the Queen and the state of Papua New Guinea,” Gabina said.
“We are not to be swayed by tribal alignment, money or emotions, don’t be swayed.
“Let the politicians fight it out and whoever is declared at the end of the day, we will serve.
“We are not trade unions to go out on the streets and protest, but we work under a chain of command. If public servants want to be involved and play politics, let them do it. We, as soldiers, do what is right,” Gabina said.
Philip pledged the loyalty of troops at the barracks.
“Pass our regards to the commander and assure him that the rank and file of the defence force is loyal and intact. We will not play politics,” Philip said.
Gabina said thanked every soldier for the success during 2011.
The engineering battalion was hailed for its major contributions to bilateral programmes and exercises including Exercise Pukpuk, which resulted in infrastructure upgrading at Murray Barracks.
Gabina said other notable achievements were the peacekeeping mission and the 7.5% pay increase.
“The peacekeeping mission is the beginning of the way forward,” he said.
Sgt N’Drau Maron, Sgt Nick Howard and Lance Cpl Wilfred Mitbut were promoted during the special luncheon, which is the only time in a year when a soldier can give commands and order superiors around.
It is a way for officers to thank their men for their loyalty and respect.