Dear Editor,
I write to express grave concern over the shocking removal of a Sergeant from the police promotion list on the very day promotions were to be announced. Reports indicate that the officer’s name was already included among those approved for promotion, only to be suddenly withdrawn under the direction of the Minister of Police, if this is true.
What makes this matter even more troubling is the history between the Minister and the officer concerned. This same Sergeant was among the officers who charged the Minister last year when he faced charges relating to conspiracy and fabrication of evidence. The timing and circumstances of the Sergeant’s removal now create a strong public perception that this action was not administrative, but retaliatory. What's even worse was the presence of his family, who came all the way from Savaii to witness this special occasion for their son only to be removed.
Police officers are sworn to uphold the law without favour or affection, malice or ill-will as reflected in their oath of office. If an officer can be denied promotion simply because he once carried out his lawful duties against a politically powerful individual, then the independence and integrity of the Police Service are under serious threat.
