Radio Talkback Legend, Roger Hau’ofa, passed away last night.
Many awoke to the news of the Papua New Guinea radio icon’s passing this morning.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill released a statement this afternoon, as tributes to the 74-year-old renowned radio presenter flowed on social media.
The Prime Minister described Roger Hau’ofa as ‘a giant of media in PNG, and a true gentleman in his nature.’
It’s not very often that you would read of someone being described as both a giant, and a gentleman, in the same line. But if there ever was anyone worthy of such a description, it would have to be Roger Hau’ofa.
At around 2am yesterday morning, a short message was posted on the Roger Hau’ofa Medical Appeal Facebook page.
In announcing his passing, it read, “he was as strong as a lion until the very end, and went out on his own terms with courage, dignity and grace.”
He was in life, larger than anyone else. His voice, easily recognisable to nearly everyone.
To many, he was a father figure, a reassuring voice, and when necessary, a voice for many who didn’t have one.
In tribute to Late Roger, Prime Minister Peter O’Neill said Roger was tough in his interview style, fair in his questions, and he always had the latest information on the topics he discussed.
On March 1st, the family announced on social media that Roger had had enough of regular kidney dialysis, and wanted to return home to Iare village in the Central province.
As more and more people hear the news of his passing this coming week, we expect to hear more about this great radio man of Papua New Guinea.
Image source: PNG FM100 Facebook
