Biden picks ex-general as defence secretary

Addis Ababa, December 8, 2020 (FBC) – US President-elect Joe Biden has chosen retired General Lloyd Austin as his defence secretary, US media report.

If confirmed by the Senate, Gen Austin, aged 67, will become the first African-American to lead the Pentagon.

Gen Austin, who led US Central Command during the Obama administration, would need a congressional waiver as it is less than seven years since he retired.

Biden’s reported decision comes two weeks after he announced other senior members of his national security team.

Biden and Gen Austin have so far made no public comments on the issue, according to BBC.