-emphasises operational readiness

CHIEF of Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips, recently briefed GDF officers and other ranks, on the current political situation, particularly as it relates to President Ramotar’s prorogation of Parliament, highlighting the security implications.

Mr. Phillips, while emphasising the security implications which currently exist because of the country’s political climate, underscored the need for a sustained state of readiness to execute duties, in keeping with the mandate of the Guyana Defense Force (GDF).

He further supported this statement by acknowledging Section 5, Chapter 15:01 of the Defence Act in the Constitution which states that, “…The Force shall be charged with the defence of and maintenance of order in Guyana and with other duties as may from time to time be defined by the Defence Board.”

In his address to the troops, Mr. Phillips stressed that their approach to their duties must be with the aim of ensuring the highest degree of professionalism at all times. He entreated the troops not to become emotional but to remain vigilant and task oriented.
“We have a role to play as providers of our nation’s safety and security” he said, while noting that all Officers, other Ranks and Civilian employees of the Force are expected to be in a state of readiness to ensure a professional commitment to their national role.

As befits its role to aid the civil powers in the maintenance of order, the GDF is committed to working in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force and other members of the Joint Services.