Parliament commenced the 2025 sitting this afternoon with tributes from MPs to the Late Sir Julius Chan who passed away on the 30th of January while still serving as Governor for New Ireland province.
Starting off the tributes was the Prime Minister, James Marape who highlighted the contributions of Sir Julius Chan who served as PM twice, Deputy PM and holding various ministerial portfolio. A great legacy left behind and a pathway for leaders of today to follow.
The late Sir Julius had a hand in building the economy of PNG and also introduced the country’s currency.
Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa also gave his tribute, urging MPs to emulate the leadership of late Sir Julius Chan.
NCD Governor Powers Parkop touched on the decisiveness of the Late Sir Julius, stating that he was a man who made the tough calls for the betterment of PNG, something leaders of today must also do.
“We don’t need to procrastinate. Sometimes we need to make the decisions, ” said Governor Parkop.
“He lived his life for the service of our people.”
Other MPs also gave their tributes, reflecting on the work he did for the country, and their personal engagements or encounters with him.
Most MPs described him as a hard working man, a wise politician and man for the people.
Meanwhile, in attendance and sitting in the public gallery was the family of late Sir Julius and members of the New Ireland provincial government who came to witness the start of the 2025 parliament sitting, dedicated to the Late Sir Julius Chan.