Late Dr. Alphonse Gelu

In his tribute to late Secretary for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs Dr Alphonse Gelu, the Prime Minister described him as a public servant who served with distinction.

"Dr Gelu had all the knowledge and know-hows of politics but didn't contest in the elections but decided to serve to his call.

"We need public servants like Dr Gelu in our country."

The Prime Minister was a student of late Dr Gelu in 1990 at the University of Papua New Guinea.

Dr Kwa was among other distinguished guests who paid tribute to Late Dr Gelu. 

From humble beginnings to reaching the pinnacle of his career, Dr Kwa said late Dr Gelu was a man to go to in terms of political advice.

"Dr Gelu has served the country with distinction,” said Dr Kwa.

"He has left a very big vacuum in the DPLLGA and the country as a whole. You will find no sadness in Dr Gelu. He will always smile and treat everybody the same." 

The casket was accompanied by his family from Alotau.

At the airport, staff of the Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs and Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates Commission welcomed the casket.

Also notably present were senior public servants including Secretary to Government Ivan Pomaleu, Secretary to Department of Personnel Management Taies Sansan, Acting Police Commissioner Joan Clarkson, Defence Force Commander Mark Goina, Transport Secretary Roy Mumu and Registrar for Political Parties Fabian Pok.