Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare

In his tribute during the independence celebration in Madang, Sir Bob said the people of East Sepik did not see the Late Sir Michael as the leader of their province alone but of the country.

He said the people of Angoram continued to vote for Late Sir Michael over a long period of time, and their support for their leader was what made him unique. Because it was different from the way people in other electorates voted for new leaders at every election.

As the nation is mourning, so the people of Kandep  as 1973 was an unforgettable event that is hold dear to the hearts of the people of Kandep when Sir Michael Somare visited the very remote place.

Kandep MP Alfred Manasseh in his tribute to Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare recalled his encounter with Sir Michael.

“I was there when he came in an Australian Defense Force Curibou Aircraft to bring supplies to Kandep when frost hit the Highlands Region especially Kandep, Tambul and upper Mendi.

In a statement EMPNG says its management and staff join the people of Papua New Guinea to mourn the passing of the founding father of the nation.

EMPNG says the late Grand Chief was a visionary leader that helped lay the foundation for an independent PNG. 

“Throughout his life he was focused on improving living standards and generating opportunities for all Papua New Guineans, and set the standard by which all other leaders in PNG are measured,” said EMPNG Managing Director, Andrew Barry.

Grand Chief Sir Michael was in high spirits on Friday, the 11^th of September, as he and locals from Wampar LLG waited for the Prime Minister and his delegation to arrive at the Zifasing Primary School for the declaration of their school of academy status, new classrooms and new machinery for the district.

As he wished Papua New Guineans a happy Independence, he commended everyone for their contribution to the nation as a whole.

Sir Michael was among family members and supporters who escorted Toka Jr to nominate as a candidate for the Chairman’s Seat at the PNG Electoral Commission office on Friday, 31st August.   

Team Toka had a successful campaign launch at Hanuabada Village on Saturday, 1st September, where over 5,000 people from all Motu Koita Villages attended.

The Motu Koita Assembly Act was endorsed in 2007 by the Somare Government. 

Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare was given the honour to launch the website last night at the Sanctuary Hotel in Port Moresby.

During the event, Opposition Leader Patrick Pruaitch said the 27 alternate Government MPs are solid and will never be moved by any sweet talks from the Government.

He added that they are ready to change the government in 18 months’ time.

“We may not have the numbers but the numbers we have right now will increase in the next coming months.”

Caretaker Manager of the National Museum, Alois Kuaso, and Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, welcomed the announcement.

The artefacts were removed from the House in December 2013 by the former Speaker Theo Zurenouc, who said his actions were aimed at cleansing the building of evil spirits.

However, after the National Court ruled in favour of the National Museum, Speaker Job Pomat announced that his office was working with the latter to have the artefacts back on display in Parliament.

Sir Michael who has had 54 years in politics officiated in one of his last events today at the ground breaking ceremony of the new Sub Regional Court Complex in Wewak.

And unlike the last time when a ground breaking took place without work actually proceeding for a Wewak court house, Sir Michael assured the judiciary of its completion.

“It’s going to happen here, yes. I hope that when you and I combine to do the ground breaking ceremony, we will not miss it unlike last time. I’ve taken your word your honor, it’s going to happen here,” Sir Michael said.

A ground breaking ceremony will take place in Wewak this morning to commence construction works of this new Sub Regional Complex which will house both the National and Supreme Courts as well as District courts.

Heads of the Law and Justice sector including Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia and Chief Magistrate Nerrie Eliakim are in Wewak for the event today.

Grand Chief Sir Micheal Somare will also be at the event.

Wewak MP and Correctional Servies Minister Jim Simatab and Town Mayor Charles Malenki will also be witnessing the ground breaking ceremony.

Speaking during his Royal PNG Constabulary farewell yesterday, he said like members of parliament, the work of the disciplinary forces has to be undertaken in respect to the rule of law.

Following the rule of law will determine if we can advance as a nation or collapse into mayhem and lawlessness.

“We have to uphold the law as prescribed by our constitution and must be given the same respect like all others.”

Somare urged all police men and women in the country to take pride in their work; with real conviction and real service to the community.