The Opposition Leader, Douglas Tomureisa has also extended his heartfelt condolences to the family and people of Bougainville for the passing away of the late Fr. Simon Dumarinu, the Member for Central Bougainville.
The late MP passed away on Friday in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, after a short illness.
Echoing sentiments raised by Prime Minister James Marape on Friday, the Opposition Leader also described the late Dumarinu as a ‘great voice for his people, and leader that always put his people first’.
In a very brief statement on Sunday, August 11, Tomureisa said even though the late MP had sat on the opposite bench (government), he ‘ always admired his (Dumarinu’s) soft-spoken nature and his down-to-earth personality.
“He was a great asset for our parliament, and brought a voice of reason and wisdom to the debates pertaining to the people and future of Bougainville, as well as other important
matters,” the statement read.
“I know this will be a tough time for the people of Central Bougainville, but I assure them that during this time of grief, our country and fellow parliamentarians will be keeping them in our thoughts and prayers.”
The Opposition Leader also acknowledge the late MP’s steadfast membership of the Social Democratic Party. and conveyed condolences to party leader and NCD Governor Powes Parkop during this somber time.
“On behalf of my family, the people of Kiriwina-Goodenough, and the Opposition, we extend our deepest sympathies to Fr Dumarinu’s family, relatives and all those who are grieving his death.”
“Our parliament mourns his passing.”
“May God’s grace be upon Fr Dumarinu.”
Finschaffen MP and the Opposition’s Alternate Prime Minister nominee, Rainbo Paita has also expressed similar sadness, and condolences.
Meantime, the body of the late MP Dumarinu travels into Port Moresby today from Bougainville, according Regional Member for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, and Minister for Internal Security, Peter Tsiamalili.
In an advise to the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and all Parliamentary Leaders, and the public in Port Moresby, the arrival is expected at 3pm today, Sunday, August 11th on a Tropic Air charter flight.
All who wish to welcome the late MP’s casket are advised to be at the Ceremonial Carpark at the Jackson’s International Airport.
He will be received by the Bougainville Community, and taken to the Funeral Home at Erima, where he will be laid to rest till National Parliament resumes on September 3rd, where Parliament will accord him the appropriate protocols.
Tsiamalili said the official haus krai in Port Moresby is at Mr. John Avira’s residence at Tokarara, Vaibori Avenue, Badira Street.
Announcements of timings will be announced after this afternoon’s arrival of the casket and body.