That should be: The new NTC chief is clueless. An imperative sentence.

Sources reveal that the new NTC chief retired Navy general Abraham Abesamis is clueless about what his job requires him. He replaced former NTC chairman Ronald Solis, who turned out to be a champion for reforms in the telecommunications industry. But no, Malacañang has to replace him with Abesamis, which this blog says is not qualified for the job.

While Abesamis may be eminently qualified as Philippine Navy commander and PN deputy chief of staff, his military credentials can never be enough for such a civilian post as NTC commissioner. Civilian positions should be filled up by civilians, not by retired military personnel loved dearly by Mrs. Arroyo.

Militarist mindsets do not fit civilian posts which require maximum degree of democratic consultations, consensus-building and transparency. Militarist mindsets can never be shaken off within a few months of a general’s retirement.

This column sums up the reasons behind Solis’ exit.

National Telecommunications Commission chief Ronald Solis’ abrupt resignation buffled baffled many. Was he not doing a good job? The official reason: he wants to go back to private practice. Bull. That’s PR bull. Why would you leave a government post this powerful? Unseen forces are at work here. Our sources told us that the “Firm” has something to do with this. Yes, “the Firm” which is now running the political machinery of the current admin.

Enuff said.