Image credit: Palex Photography
The founding father of Papua New Guinea, Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, celebrated the country’s 44th independence anniversary at Walum Imbonggu District, South Highlands Province.
His 44th independence message was to have discipline at all levels of government, public servants and disciplinary forces. Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare called for all works of life to have discipline.
The Grand Chief has a fond history with the people of Imbonggu when he has visited the district in his early political career to nominate Imbonggu MP, Pila Niningi under Pangu Pati. He was told to choose a location for the district office to be built.
After more than 25 years and Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare was surprised the Imbonggu district office was built on the location he had jokingly chosen decades ago.
Grand Chief Sir Michael encouraged the leaders of Southern Highlands and Hela Provinces to make use of the oil and gas minerals in their area and use the money for development.
The Grand Chief also called for Papua New Guineans to stand in solidarity and work together for the betterment of the country.
Six more years before the country turns 50 years old, and Sir Michael’s wish is for PNG to appreciate getting independence on a golden plate.
By Vasinatta Yama, EMTV News, Mt Hagen
