Parliament's September sitting started this afternoon not with the normal opening session, but with the Lie- In- State ceremony of the late MP for Central Bougainville as a mark of respect for a leader who strived for his people and for peace. The casket of late Fr. Simon Dumarinu was taken in by pole bearers comprising of Correctional Services officers, onto the parliament chamber floor where the casket was placed for the ceremony. Opening the tributes was Prime Minister James Marape who described late Fr Dumarinu as a truly committed leader, who wants what is best for his people, the people of Bougainville and the future of Bougainville. "He wanted us to find a lasting solution to Bougainville," said the prime minister. The late MP during the Bougainville crisis when practicing as a Catholic priest, facilitated dialogue between the parties in the crisis. He was also instrumental in the progressing of the Bougainville Peace Agreement and continued to work to see Bougainville gain its independence when he passed on. Prime Minister Marape said his legacy expands fare as a politician. "He inspired other politicians to excel and put people first." The leader of the Opposition, Douglas Tomuriesa also paid his respects and tribute, describing the late MP as a man of the people who only wanted peace and harmony amongst his people, Bougainville and Papua New Guinea. "He was destined to become a leader and for that reason, he was chosen by his people twice to lead," said the Opposition leader. It was this passion and drive that saw the late MP two months ago launched a Five-year Development Plan for his Central Bougainville electorate before his passing. Meantime, his Social Democratic Party leader, Powes Parkop, said the Party has lost a great leader and they are still coming to terms with his passing. "He was an extraordinary leader. He was truly a servant of God and of his people." Late Fr Simon Dumarinu's dedication to his work for his people stemmed from his struggles, and having shared the struggles of his people, he was committed to peace and development. Other MPs also paid their tributes together describing him as a man of good character, a man of peace and a peace maker. The ceremony then closed with parliament adjourned to tomorrow, Wednesday 4th September at 10am.