Chief of Defence Staff

Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) is the most senior appointment in the Guyana Defence Force. The CDS is an officer appointed by the President, in whom the command of the Force is vested. In accordance with the terms of this appointment, the CDS exercises full command authority over the Guyana Defence Force.
He is also the Chairman of the Joint Services Coordinating Council
The Head of the Guyana Defence Force is now officially titled the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) — a change from the former designation, Chief of Staff. This update aligns Guyana with regional and Commonwealth military naming conventions, where “Chief of Defence Staff” is widely recognised as the title for the professional head of the armed forces.
Past Chiefs of Staff
Discover the commanders, and senior ranks who shape the direction of the Defence Force. Understand their roles, responsibilities, and the structure that supports national defence.

Headquarters
Defence Headquarters
Base Camp Ayanganna
Thomas Lands
Georgetown
Phone: (592) 226 8002
Email: media@gdf.mil.gy