Vanuatu’s Head of State Baldwin Lonsdale says he wants to see a new Police Commissioner who is neutral and independent from political views and rivalry.
Speaking to the media, President Lonsdale said the only way forward to satisfying the criteria of a neutral person to the post is to stick to the requirements under the law.
The Vanuatu Police (Amendment) Act No or 2010 stipulates that the selection of a new Police Commissioner should only be subject to the law and without political interference.
Section (7) of the Act states a person must not be appointed as the Commissioner under subsection (1) unless:
(b) has served in a senior position within the Force for a period of at least 7 years; and
(c) preferably has a tertiary qualification in the area of policing, military, management or Law.
The recent amendments to the Vanuatu Police Act also addresses the gender issue by adding the word “she” next to “he” and “her” next to “his” as a gender solution in all sections of the Vanuatu Police Act.
President Lonsdale said in his capacity as the symbol of peace, unity and harmony of the nation he holds the view that the government should allow foreigners to apply as well as qualified Ni-Vans.
He said in the event that the selection falls in favor of a foreigner, that particular candidate should be given a clear mandate which should end with the appointment of a Ni-Vanuatu Police Commissioner.
Earlier, the Parliamentary Secretary for Internal Affairs, Andrew Napuat affirmed the government’s position not to allow political interference in the appointment of the Police Commissioner.
The media has been reliably informed that in the previous selection process, Minister Maoh, who is responsible for police matters, has had consultation with the President at the State Office with the intent to ensure all is done according to law.
The selection process for the three shortlisted candidates was eventually declared null and void following revelation that the then chairman of the Commission, Api Jack Marikembo, had a criminal conviction record.
His successor, Willie Vira is yet to begin the new process by re-advertising the post, both locally and abroad.