PRIME Minister Hon. James Marape has issued a formal apology to the immediate family of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare for any insensitivities regarding the proposal to name a new government building after Sir Michael.
The Prime Minister was responding to concerns raised by the Somare family about the proposed use of the name “Somare” for the new building that will house the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council (PM & NEC).
“To my sister Dulciana Somare, the Somare family, the people of Murik, and the East Sepik
Province, I extend my sincere apologies for any insensitivities this may have caused,” Prime
Minister Marape said.
He clarified that the proposal was preliminary and assured the public that appropriate
consultations will take place, particularly as the government prepares for the nation’s 50th
Independence anniversary celebrations in 2025.
“This was a proposal, and I assure you that due consultations will take place as part of our
government’s preparations for next year’s 50th anniversary celebrations,” he stated.
The Prime Minister also highlighted his recent discussions on this matter, “On Independence Day, after the flag-raising ceremony, I had a brief meeting with Arthur Somare and proposed a follow-up meeting next week to discuss this further, as well as the proposed Somare Museum,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He added that National Capital District Governor, Hon. Powes Parkop, and Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, Hon. Pilai Niningi, were also part of the discussion with Mr. Somare.
“Once again, I apologise on behalf of the Department of PM & NEC. Our intention was to honor the late Sir Michael Somare by naming the office, situated next to our Parliament and Judiciary headquarters, after him,” the Prime Minister emphasised.
Prime Minister Marape further noted that dialogue will take place with appropriate people and family so that during the fourth anniversary of Sir Michael’s passing in February next year, consensus can be reached to make the name change.
“We will engage in discussions with the family and the people of East Sepik, including the Murik villagers, to ensure that on the next anniversary of his passing, the name change can occur,” he said.
Additionally, the Prime Minister clarified the ownership structure of the proposed Somare
Building.
“It is a building that the State is procuring through the Build Operate Lease Transfer (BOLT)
arrangement,” he explained.
Under the BOLT arrangement, the State will pay for the building through a lease-to-own
agreement over a period of 10 to 15 years. The Prime Minister highlighted that savings from other office spaces will help fund this arrangement.
“We have lease arrangements where money saved by moving other offices to rent-free Sir
Manasupe and Morauta Offices will see us pay off the new Prime Minister and NEC Office,”
Prime Minister Marape said.
