ACT forces halt to Army’s cultural competency push

ACT Public Service spokesperson Todd Stephenson says the New Zealand Army’s decision to pause its Cultural Skills Framework is a win for common sense.

“New Zealanders expect Army leaders to be war-fighters, not performers. Requiring officers to memorise waiata and karakia was a clear case of priorities drifting off course,” says Mr Stephenson.

Mr Stephenson wrote to the Defence Minister warning the framework risked putting ideological box-ticking ahead of operational focus and merit.

In her reply, the Minister confirmed Army leadership has now paused the framework for broader consultation.

“That pause is welcome, but it should become permanent," says Mr Stephenson.

“Our Defence Force exists to defend New Zealand and support our allies in an increasingly dangerous world. It should be laser-focused on capability and readiness.

“ACT will keep pushing to ensure the Armed Forces stay focused on what actually keeps New Zealand safe.”