President Hage Geingob this week appointed Air Marshall Martin Kambulu Pinehas as the new chief of the Namibia Defence Force (NDF).
Former commander of the Namibian Air Force (NAF) Pinehas’ appointment became effective on Wednesday, 1 April as he replaces Lieutenant General John Mutwa.
“President Hage Geingob appoints Air Marshall Martin Kambulu Pinehas as chief of the Namibian Defence Force in his capacity as commander-in-chief of the Namibian Defence Force and by virtue of the power vested in him by the country’s constitution,” a statement from the presidency read.
According to the statement as CDF, Pinegas will be called upon to make provision for the balanced structuring of the defence force and to make suitable appointments of members under his command, in accordance with the prescripts of the law, including the applicable policies, rules and procedures.
Pinehas will also be expected to deal with pending charges of indiscipline against members, to ensure that they are investigated and prosecuted. Moreover, the new chief will also be expected to keep a tight grip over the manner state resources are spend in the military.
Pinehas was appointed the commander of the air wing of the NDF in 2000, with the rank of colonel, eventually making it to Brigadier General and Air Vice Marshall in 2008.
A former PLAN combatant he has been awarded the Excellent Order of the Eagle: Third Class on Heroes Day in 2014.
