Manning calls on citizens to honour memory of Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare

Friday February 26  2021

Police Commissioner and Controller of the PNG COVID-19 National Pandemic Response, David Manning has called upon all Papua New Guineans around the country, to honour the memory of the founding father of PNG, Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare.

Mr Manning made this appeal upon learning of the death of Grand Chief Sir Michael last night.

Mr Manning said, “Grand Chief Sir Michael believed in the unity of this nation of a thousand tribes and gave his life to this cause.

“He stood up when it mattered against the colonial masters and a world filled with racism, ignorance and hatred and dedicated his life to bring about a united and independent nation.

“Grand Chief Sir Michael has stood with PNG for the last forty-six years to make PNG a fully functioning and vibrant democratic nation that we can all be proud of.

“It is for and in honour of Grand Chief Sir Michael that I am appealing to all Papua New Guineans to mourn his death peacefully.

“Anyone who attempts to use our founding father’s death to cause public disorder, fear and anxiety is now advised to refrain.

“Police commands throughout the country will be out in full force to ensure that opportunists do not take this sad day in our history to create fear and panic.

“Grand Chief Sir Michael was a great champion for peace and unity. Let us honour his memory and be united in mourning his death.

“Finally, on behalf of my family, and members of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, I offer our deepest condolences to Lady Veronica, children and grandchildren. The Grand Chief was the son of a policeman, Sergeant Ludwig Somare, who served from 1922 to 1947 in the police force. We have always considered the Somares as members of the extended police family. We will honour and cherish Grand Chief Sir Michael always.”

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