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Peace and Unity for Papua New Guineans this Independence

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The words of Pope Francis still resonates in the Government almost a week after he left.

As Papua New Guinea celebrates its 49th year of Independence, Prime Minister James Marape echoes words of peace and unity for Papua New Guinea.

Marape called for forgiveness and reconciliation during the country’s 49th independence anniversary.

The Prime Minister said the Pope’s message was in line with the dreams and aspirations of the country’s Founding Fathers at Independence.

“I want us all to bear in mind and keep in our hearts the message by Pope Francis who visited us earlier this month. The Pontiff spoke of tolerance, forgiveness, empathy and unity. These are important as our country turns 49 years today.

“Despite our political differences, cultural and language diversity, we have remained united as a nation for 49 years. That is something we all must be proud of,” he said.

The Prime Minister in remembering the joyous events of 1975 and in honor of PNG’s Founding Fathers, appealed to all citizens to stay united as a nation for the next 49 years.

“We must find a common resolve to remain united, to heal the divides and to bridge the gaps that exist in our midst, and to ensure our people in spite of the differences of tribe, religion, colour of skin – so long as we call PNG home, we must make PNG a better place for all.

“We must do this as we near our 50th Independence anniversary next year 2025,” he said.

The Prime Minister was speaking at PNG’s 49th Independence Anniversary dinner on the night of Sunday, 15th September 2024 at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Konedobu.

The stadium is a significant part of PNG’s history as an Independent Nation. On the 16th of September 1975, the Australian flag was officially lowered at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium and the PNG flag raised for the first time.

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Call for Peace and Progress this Independence

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Citizens across Papua New Guinea are celebrating the nation’s 49th Independence Anniversary.

During the flag lowering ceremony today at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby, the Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae called for peace and progress in his Independence anniversary address.

Reflecting on the nation’s journey, Sir Bob paid tribute to the brave individuals who fought for freedom during World War II and the leaders who laid the foundation for independence in 1975.

He emphasized the importance of the principles of freedom, unity, and peace that were embedded in the country’s Constitution.

Despite progress, Sir Bob acknowledged challenges that have hindered social and economic growth. He urged government departments to focus on achieving practical outcomes and work closely with the private sector and international partners to drive industrialization and economic development.

Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, giving his address at the Independence Day flag lowering ceremony at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Port Moresby.
Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, giving his address at the Independence Day flag lowering ceremony at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Port Moresby.

Sir Bob highlighted the need for a safe and stable environment for both citizens and investors. He stressed the importance of adhering to Christian values and the message of peace promoted during the recent visit by the Holy Father of the Catholic Church.

He addressed the ongoing issues of crime and lawlessness, urging communities to support law enforcement and work towards safer neighborhoods.

The Governor General encouraged Papua New Guineans to shift away from relying solely on government support, advocating for hard work, discipline, and self-reliance to achieve personal success and contribute to national prosperity.

As the nation looks forward to its 50th year of independence in 2025, Sir Bob called for renewed commitment to the values of freedom, unity, and peace.

“Happy 49th Independence Anniversary, Papua New Guinea!” he concluded, wishing blessings and guidance for the journey ahead.

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Autonomous Bougainville Government

Toroama Speaks on PNG’s Independence

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Ishmael Toroama

Bougainville President, Ishmael Toroama said Bougainville’s stand for an independent nation will never be compromised and his people have stood on the forefront of the battlefield to protect their people from oppressors, and they have stood yet again on the forefront to make peace.

“Our aspiration for independence is not merely based on figures on paper but it is based on the human struggle of people and our history. We recognize that the Bougainville Process is an ongoing process that remains to be settled by the legal framework that governs it.” said president Toroama.

Toroama’s reflection on Bougainville’s Independence comes on the eve of Papua New Guinea’s 48th year of Independence.

As Bougainville continues to endeavor on it’s own path to self-determination, Toroama acknowledged that they are still a part of Papua New Guinea.

“It is within these sentiments that I wish the Government and people of PNG happy celebrations on the eve of the 48th Anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s Independence. By the grace of God, Papua New Guinea and Bougainville can mutually coexist as brothers defined only by an international border in the near future,” he said.

Toroama said the Late Great Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare had always described Bougainville as an integral part of Papua New Guinea and that statement could not be any truer.

“During the formative years of this country, Bougainville and our political leaders played a vital role in securing and guaranteeing PNG’s independence on September 16, 1975,” said Toroama.

But as president of Bougainville, Ishmael Toroama went on to say that was from a historical standpoint, it is undeniable that Bougainville was an integral part of Papua New Guinea.

“Our resources gave the economic guarantee for independence and the founding leaders supported Sir Michael through the establishment of governance systems that formed the basis of Papua New Guinea’s democracy,” said Toroama.

But Toroama said that was before Bougainville had an unjust war waged on them by the very institution sworn to protect their rights and civil liberties.

“It was sponsored by a regime so disillusioned by greed and plundering our rich resources it did not hesitate to wage a genocidal war against people who were only defending ourselves, our lands and our constitutional right to exist and express ourselves,” said Toroama.

He said while the Bougainville Civil War will forever remain a very dark period in Papua New Guinea’s history it serves as a powerful reminder to Bougainville that any government sworn to protect its people should never raise its hand against them in an act of war.

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