Overseas applications for Vanuatu Police Commissioner

A total of 8 applicants are vying for the position of the vacant Vanuatu Police Force Commissioner.

The Police Service Commission confirmed the total number of applicants to Vanuatu Daily Post adding applicants comes from both nationally and abroad.

Secretary of the Police Service Commission, Job Boe explained that it is the first time for the Police Commissioner's post to be advertised both nationally and overseas.

“The post was advertised outside including Australia and New Zealand and some of the applications we received are from abroad,” said Boe.

For the first time after Independence the post was advertised overseas because of the recent amendment of the Police Act that allowed foreigners to take the highest rank in the law enforcement agency.

Before the amendment one of the main requirements for the Police Commissioner was for the candidate to be a Vanuatu citizen.

The selection of the new Police Commissioner is still in process hence the Police Service Commission is reluctant to name the applicants.

Daily Post understands that an important meeting is expected to take place this week in relation to the matter.

While no exact date has been set yet for the successful candidate, both the Police Service Commission and the Minister responsible, Minister for Internal Affairs assured that the vacant post will be filled soon.

Meanwhile a common opinion from the general public is the preference of an expat Commissioner who can hopefully bring an end to the infamous differences within the Force.

Daily Post understands some of the applicants are senior members inside the Force.

The position is currently held by an Acting Police Commissioner, Robson Iavro.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST