Taiwan's military reshuffle could signal defence policy shift

Taiwan's new National Defence Minister Kao Kuang-chi, a former navy commander, is expected to start work on Friday (Jan 30) along with six new top-ranking military leader - part of President Ma Ying-jeou's efforts to inject new blood into the island's military ranks.

Incumbent Defence Minister Yen Ming, who had only served one year in office, will take on a role as national policy adviser, according to the President’s Office. Yen has cited personal issues and a desire to promote younger leadership as reasons for leaving.

"The reasons the Minister has decided to resign are mainly: First, he said he has completed his mission and secondly, he wants to promote younger leadership in the army's management," said National Defence Ministry spokesman David Lo.

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