Prime Minister James Marape has expressed deep sorrow at the passing of late Sir Charles Watson Lepani, KBE CBE OBE, a distinguished statesman, diplomat, and pioneer of Papua New Guinea’s post independence era. Sir Charles passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025, in Port Moresby, surrounded by his wife, Lady Katherine Lepani, and son, Nathaniel Lepani, after a battle with stage four cancer. Prime Minister Marape said, “Sir Charles Lepani’s passing comes at a time when Papua New Guinea is preparing to celebrate 50 years of independence, making this loss even more significant. “Sir Charles was one of our most distinguished leaders who played a pivotal role in shaping PNG’s economic, social, and diplomatic policies in the years following independence. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Papua New Guineans. “He was part of PNG’s renowned ‘Gang of Four,’ alongside Sir Mekere Morauta, Sir Anthony Siaguru, and Sir Rabbie Namaliu — a group of visionary thinkers who helped craft the foundations of PNG’s governance, economy, and foreign policy during the country’s formative years.” Born on October 28, 1947, Sir Charles was a proud Trobriand Islander from Milne Bay Province, whose cultural roots anchored his lifelong dedication to public service. Prime Minister Marape highlighted Sir Charles’s pioneering roles in nation-building: “Following independence in 1975, Sir Charles became PNG’s first Director of the National Planning Office, where he helped shape development strategies for equitable growth. He went on to serve in key diplomatic roles, including PNG’s Ambassador to the European Union and High Commissioner to Australia, strengthening PNG’s international relations. “His leadership during PNG’s hosting of the 2018 APEC Summit as Director-General of the APEC Authority showcased his exceptional management and diplomatic skills. More recently, he chaired the Eminent Persons Group, developing PNG’s Foreign Policy White Paper, a document that will guide our future foreign engagements.” The Prime Minister said Sir Charles was a fierce advocate for equitable development. “Sir Charles always believed that the benefits of PNG’s progress should reach all Papua New Guineans. His calm demeanor, wisdom, and humility earned him respect both at home and abroad, and his contributions to our nation’s growth will never be forgotten. “As we approach 50 years of independence, we remember and honor the generation of leaders like Sir Charles who laid the foundation for our nation’s development. His legacy is a reminder of what true leadership and service to the nation look like.” Prime Minister Marape extended his condolences to Lady Katherine Lepani, Nathaniel Lepani, and the entire Lepani family. “Sir Charles’s life was one of selfless service and dedication to Papua New Guinea. His remarkable legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Rest in peace, Sir Charles. Your work for Papua New Guinea will never be forgotten.”