The death of Anderson Pawa Agiru – the shining star of Hela - was in deed a moment words cannot describe in the short history of Papua New Guinea politics.
Loop PNG’s Political and Business Editor FREDDY MOU reports on events after his death at the PIH. This is the first part of a four-part series.
The body of late Hela Governor Anderson Agiru will be laid to rest at Dauli tomorrow.
Today marks 22 days since late Agiru’s death on April 28.
Hela's favourite son died at around 10am on April 28, 2016 at the Pacific International Hospital in Port Moresby.
Late Agiru died of a suspected heart attack.
His consulting doctor at PIH, Dr Paul Mondia said the politician was battling with diabetes which he suspected led to further complications inducing a heart attack.
Hundreds of people gathered at PIH to mourn the death of the late Hela Governor Anderson Agiru after hearing of his death.
The body of late governor was then taken to the Erima Funeral Home while the funeral arrangements were being discussed by the committee.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill upon hearing of the late Agiru’s passing extended his condolence and sympathy to the family of the late Governor on that day, April 28, 2016.
O’Neill joined other leaders in extending his sorrow at the passing of a great leader.
“I was saddened at the news that Governor Anderson Agiru MP has passed away.”
“On behalf of the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea, I extend our condolences and sympathy to the family of the Late Governor.
“Governor Agiru was a man who was dedicated to serving the people of Hela and the Nation.
He provided strong leadership in Hela for the delivery of the PNG LNG project that is one of the great successes of our nation.
“In the final years of his life, the Late Anderson Agiru had the honour of serving his people as their Governor, and did this as the first Governor of the Province.
Finance Minister and Tari-Pori MP James Marape also on that day conveyed his condolences to the family of late Agiru.
Marape said: “I have been with Late Agiru since 1991 when he first contested for the Southern Highlands by election and today to see his demise leaves me and his people profound sadness.
“Hela is in mourning and I request our people to be in peace, harmony and unity as we mourn the loss of the Leader of Hela people.
On April 29, the committee responsible for the arrangement of the funeral arrangement met and come up with a programme while his body rests at the Erima Funeral Home in Port Moresby.
The committee then made a decision that the body of late Agiru would be viewed by the public in the afternoon at 3pm at the Sir John Guise stadium in Port Moresby.
Former Prime Minister and New Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan hearing of the late governor’s death also conveyed his condolences to his families and the people of Hela and Southern Highlands.
Sir Julius described late Agiru as a humble leader who dedicated his life to serving the people of Hela and Papua New Guinea.
“It is with shock and sorrow that I learned of the passing of husband and Governor Anderson Aigiru, who I personally admired as an educated talented leader, always courteous, efficient and humble in spirit.
Sir Julius said the loss of a great leader such as Anderson, who always demonstrated passion for his people and potential as a national leader amongst his highlands regional counterparts.
Part Two – Thousands swarm to Sir John Guise Stadium to pay respect
