Member for Kerowagi and Education Minister Lucas Dawa Kikino yesterday paid tribute to the country’s founding fathers and patriots who stood with Grand Chief late Sir Michael Thomas Somare to gain independence from colonial rule.
Minister Kikino said the role played by the founding fathers was significant in shaping Papua New Guinea as an independent nation.
He said despite funding constraints affecting Independence preparations in some provinces and districts, with much of the funding diverted to El Niño relief and fuel costs, it was important for his people to join the rest of the country to commemorate the nation’s journey.
“That is why under my leadership the District Development Authority Supported Independence activities staged at Migende, Gena area and Kerowagi rugby oval because I realized that this will be the last Independence celebration for this term of Parliament and it is important,” he said.
Minister Kikino said the Marape-Rosso Government this month officiated the groundbreaking on the multi-national highway and ribbon-cutting on bridges along the Highlands Highway as an Independence gift under the Connect PNG program, describing it as history and a legacy under Prime Minister James Marape and the Pangu Pati-led Government.
He said after 51 years, Papua New Guinea has come a long way and every citizen has a duty and responsibility to contribute to nation-building.
“It is about time we have to change mindset, reset and focus on doing the right things for our country,” he said.
He urged his people to respect public servants, missionaries and other key stakeholders and prominent leaders past and present, and to work collectively to build an equitable society.
