Top Cop announces changes for promotion

… no longer need recommendations of Commanders

Seeks after having voiced concerns over several ranks that were promoted during his vacation, Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud has announced changes in the way junior officers can move up the ranks.

This revelation comes against the backdrop that in late October, Police ranks who were promoted by Acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine in Persaud’s absence feared that their promotion would have been withdrawn since there was controversy about who had powers to make promotions within the Force. However, a few days later, Minister of State Joseph Harmon advised that the promotions will remain intact.

Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud
Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud

Speaking at the unveiling of a Police gym named in his honour on Wednesday, Persaud suggested that the promotion board unit will play an even more active role in the elevation of ranks, leading to less reliance on the word of Commanders. The Commissioner further disclosed that any rank who feels that he or she is suitable for upward movement can express their justifications via letters to the board.

“Matters that are considered for promotion were recommendations by those Commanders only [but ranks who think that they are desirous [and] are eligible for promotion [could] make their case in writing and the board has been instructed to assess all those cases. So it’s not only limited any longer to a recommendation of a Commander but individuals themselves can make their case and those cases [will be] considered,” Persaud told the gathering which included several senior ranks.

He further explained that the board is chaired by Assistant Commissioner of Police Administration and noted that the board will include all divisional and branch commanders.

Donation

Meanwhile, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan was present to hand over a donation to the Police Force of 18 tint meters and 15 decibel meters to measure noise levels.

Ramjattan announced that the donation was provided by the Chinese Embassy and further disclosed that the equipment came along with the necessary batteries and chargers. Speaking with media on the sidelines, the Police Commissioner informed that the Police will carry out several assessments to determine where the equipment will be deployed. He however disclosed that the requisite testing will get underway in time for first use of the equipment by next week Monday.

Persaud further noted that the visibility will be key when Police will assess the amount of darkness the tint carries. (Shemuel Fanfair)