By Delly Waigeno – EM TV News, Port Moresby
Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Michael Ogio, resumed duties today after being away for five months due to health reasons.
Sir Michael Ogio underwent bypass heart surgery at the Raffles Hospital in Singapore last October.
Grand Chief Sir Michael had sought medical attention in Port Moresby, however, due to his condition recommendations were made to seek further medical treatment overseas.
Due to his condition, the GG was advised to stay away from work in order to make a full recovery.
He travelled to Singapore last month for a medical review, and this morning Sir Michael was back in office after getting the ‘all clear’ from his doctors.
“I am glad that I am able to return to work and I’m looking forward to performing my duties as Head of State. I am grateful to my family and friends for their love and support. I thank also the doctors both here in Port Moresby and Singapore, staff of Government House, friends and well-wishers for their care and encouragement.
I want to thank also the Prime Minister Hon. Peter O’Neill and the Government, Speaker of National Parliament Theo Zurenuoc and Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia for their unwavering support. As difficult as it was, this experience has made me realize and appreciate the precious gift of life that we have been blessed with, and that we should do all we can’to safeguard our health and avoid activities and practices that may bring harm to our lives and those of others. My simple message to my fellow Papua New Guineans would be, live healthy and live longer,” Grand Chief Sir Michael said.
The Governor General performed his first official duty this morning at the swearing in ceremony of a new judge of the National and Supreme Courts, Robert Lee Lindsay.
