Late Governor-General Sir Michael Ogio

Disappointment over former GG’s burial

A senior ex-combatant, who wishes to remain anonymous, expressed his disgust regarding the absence of a firing party, and that the late Sir Michael Ogio was not accorded a gun salute at his burial.

“Those present were expecting a military burial but were disappointed when their leader was laid down silently.”

He explained that at any funeral of a head of state, the military takes charge of things from the day of death to the burial. However, it was reported that the PNGDF contingent to the burial in Bougainville was downsized and the firing party removed.

Late Governor-General a respected figure: PM

 “Sir Michael served his country and people with high dignity (and) humility, as a teacher, long serving Member of Parliament, Minister of State, Deputy Prime Minister, and later our Governor- General,” O’Neill said. 

The prime minister made this statement when paying tribute to the country’s 9th Governor-General at his State Funeral on Friday in Port Moresby.

O’Neill said Sir Michael’s vast experience in public life served him well as the country’s Head of State.

The late GG was a teacher and provincial and national politician for 37 years.

Late GG Sir Michael given a royal farewell at Jacksons Airport

Also to farewell the late Sir Michael was his successor, Bob Dadae, Fisheries Minister Mao Zeming and PNGDF Commander Gilbert Toropo.   

The casket of the vice regal departed for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville at 10:30am for his final leg of respect before burial at his place of birth at Tinputz.

Upon arrival in Buka, the Autonomous Bougainville Government will receive the casket to accord their respect.

The ABG Government have their own program in place. 

Late Sir Michael died at the Government House State residence on February 19.