Captain Don Polo Appointed New Chief of Defence Staff
According to the Ministry of Defence, Captain (Naval) Don Polo has been appointed the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force. This marks a new chapter in the organization’s continued evolution and commitment to national defence and security. President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Christine Carla Kangaloo, O.R.T.T., presented Polo with his instrument of appointment on Tuesday (7th October, 2025), after she was advised by Minister of Defence, Wayne Sturge, who had consulted with Prime Minister the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP.
Prior to his appointment, Polo served as the Commanding Officer of the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard. With over thirty-two (32) years of dedicated service, Capt. (N) Polo “brings a wealth of experience, and operational expertise to the role,” the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force said in a Media Release today (Thursday 9th October, 2025).
Polo’s appointment as CDS came immediately following the revocation of the appointment of Air Vice Marshall Darryl Daniel, after more than thirty-seven (37) years of distinguished service. Daniel's appointment was revoked by President Kangaloo, who acted on advice received from Minister Sturge in accordance with Section 12 of the Defence Act, Chap 14:01.
The Ministry of Defence said the instrument of revocation as well as the instrument of appointment were both served by Minister Sturge on the aforementioned Officers, shortly after 8:00 PM on Tuesday night at the Temple Court Office of the Ministry of Defence.
The Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force said in its Media Release that it “extends its heartfelt gratitude to Air Vice Marshal Daniel for his unwavering dedication, leadership, and invaluable contribution to the security framework of the nation. His decades of service exemplify professionalism, loyalty, and steadfast commitment to the people of Trinidad and Tobago.”
The Media Release added, “The Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force remains steadfast in its mandate to protect and defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, while continuing to support the Government and people in the pursuit of peace, stability, and national development.”
More on this as it becomes available.
[Source: Trinidad Express]
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