Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare’s farewell from politics will begin tomorrow at the national parliament.
After nearly 50 years in active politics, Papua New Guinea’s first Prime Minister will be bowing out this year.
Preparations at the National Parliament grounds have already begun.
While specific details of the farewell are yet to be revealed, it is expected to be part of tomorrows parliament session which is expected to start at 10am.
This morning, the usual quite grounds of the parliament showed signs that it is expecting something special with the CS Band practicing a march to the State Function Room. Lawns are mowed, potholes patched and the location where Sir Michaels bust is mounted is having a makeover.
This is preparation for PNGs first prime minister who took this office on September 16th 1975. The Grand Chief has been at the helm of PNGs government on five different occasions spanning 17 years.
Regionally he has also made history, as one of the founding fathers of the Melanesian Spearhead Group, and as a politician who has spanned nearly 50 years, he is the longest serving politician in the commonwealth, which consists of 52 countries including, former colonisers, Australia and the United Kingdom.
Tomorrow is expected to be the start of a host of activities to farewell the icon that is Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare.
1 comment
I wish to show my Gratitude’s to Grand Chief Somare after nearly 50 years of leadership serving country Papua New Guinea as a good shepherd since early hood. Grand Chief to my understanding, I come to realized that, God has given you mandate to govern his flocks and because of that you are sincerely blessed. Thank you for time of error you break through ages and now giving your country the real shape of the nation should of be.
I am so proud for your leadership qualities that have in built in yourself, passing from one source to another. I recommended you you to be a BLESSED AND ENRICHED LEADER.
Thanks very much, may your retirement be a restless journey and God be with you with your wife Lady Veronica Somare
Best regards from,
Salventius ARKET
VANIMO, WEST SEPIK PROVINCE.