Call me a slow reader, but I started the manga on Jan. 1st, 2008, and I've just now caught up. Then again, I did take a 3 month break or so. But I have seen the anime...twice. ^^
I agree. I never liked Nishi before, but now it looks like he's gonna kick some ass.
P.S. I would love to see Phase 2 get turned into an anime someday. :D So many great characters and aliens the anime is missing out on.