Sir Michael Ogio

A condolence message from Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, to Lady Esmie Ogio, says: “I am deeply grieved and saddened by the demise of His Excellency, Grand Chief Sir Michael Ogio…I would like to convey my heartfelt condolences on behalf of the government and the people of Japan.

The funeral of the 75-year-old vice regal will be held at St Mary’s Cathedral in Port Moresby starting at 10am, and led by Cardinal Sir John Ribat.     

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

He assumed office on February 25, 2011.

Sir Michael is survived by his wife Lady Esmie Ogio, five children and eight grandchildren.

Sir Michael passed away last weekend.

In a statement Zeming described the late Sir Michael as humble and easy going person.

“I came to know Ogio in our time as Cabinet Minister’s and as Members of the People’s Democratic Movement party.

“He was a humble person and easy to get along with. He was also fatherly figure whose counsel and advice was always relied on in Cabinet and in party room, especially when there were disagreements on policy implementation.”

Prime Minister Peter O'Neill have paid his respect, followed by senior members of cabinet.

Also in attendance, are Opposition MPs, Kerenga Kua and Dr Alan Marat with members of the Diplomatic Corps and State Agencies heads.

The State funeral will be held tomorrow before the casket depart for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville on Saturday.

More to come...

“It is with great sadness that the Office of the Governor-General informs the people of Papua New Guinea that Governor-General Grand Chief Sir Michael Ogio, GCL, GCMG, KStJ, passed away this afternoon.”

“Grand Chief Sir Michael Ogio, the 9th Governor-General of Papua New Guinea, was ill for sometime and died at the State residence at Government House at 3:50pm today.”

“Grand Chief Sir Michael Ogio was 75 years old. Sir Michael was elected 9th Governor-General of Papua New Guinea on January 2011.

“The National Parliament has voted to nominate Bob Dadae as the tenth Governor-General of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea,” the Prime Minister said.

“I congratulate Mr. Dadae on his nomination, and for the confidence that Members of the National Parliament have vested in him.

“Bob Dadae has provided honourable service to our nation as a Member of Parliament and through his work in the community.”

O’Neill said as the Vice-regal representative of Her Majesty the Queen, the Nation’s Governor-General is a person of inspiration for our people.

The GG seat will be vacated next month after current GG Sir Michael Ogio’s term expired after serving the term for six years.

Diro in a press conference today in Port Moresby, make his intentions known to the public.

“My wife and I feel that we have served the nation sufficiently to warrant raising my hand for the post of Governor-General.

“I am now 73 years old but entrusted with public duty, I shall overcome all issues of minor physical nature brought about by aging process.

Sir Vuatha closes the curtain on a 22-year distinguished career as the Official Secretary for four different Governor Generals.

The ceremony was witnessed by the Governor General, Sir Michael Ogio and Lady Esmie Ogio, Government officials, staff of Government house and relatives and friends.

Sir Michael said he admired his outgoing Secretary for practicing principles of Christianity, integrity, and reputation as Official Secretary.

And he commended his wife, Lady Vuatha, for her support to him during his tenure.

 Speaking this morning at the Prayer Breakfast, Sir Michael challenged Christians in the country, who have been given the freedom to practice their faith, to live up to Godly principles as described in the Bible.

“Recognising the significance of the Bible as God’s Word and the importance of prayer as we are doing today, it is of equal importance that we practice our faith as the Bible states in James 1:22-25.

“The Bible urges us to be doers of the word, and with faith we pray seeking God’s wisdom and guidance to guide us in all that we do,” the Governor-General said.

They met various dignitaries including heads of states and royalties at a formal welcome reception hosted by Crown Prince of Tonga Prince Tupouto’a Ulukalala at Nuku’alofa, Tonga recently.

Pictured is the Governor General and Lady Ogio meeting with Tonga’s Crown Prince Tupouto’a Ulukalala and Crown Princess Sinaitakala, New Zealand Governor General Sir Jerry Mateparae and Lady Janine, Governor General of Australia Sir Peter Cosgrove and Lady Cosgrove, and Crown Prince of Japan Prince Naruhito.