Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has expressed deep sadness over the passing of Maprik Open Member of Parliament Hon. Libert Kapris, describing his death as a painful loss to his family, the people of Maprik, East Sepik Province and the National Parliament.
Mr Kapris passed away on Saturday morning, 17 October 2026, at the Pacific International Hospital in Port Moresby.
In an official statement released today, Prime Minister Marape extended his heartfelt condolences to the late MP’s immediate family, relatives, clan, political colleagues and the people of Maprik.
The Prime Minister described the circumstances surrounding Mr Kapris’ passing as particularly heartbreaking, noting that the late MP had succeeded his father, former Maprik MP Hon. Gabriel Kapris, who died on 13 August 2023.
Mr Libert Kapris subsequently won the June 2024 Maprik Open By-Election, taking over the parliamentary seat previously held by his father.
Prime Minister Marape said it was tragic that both father and son had passed away within the same parliamentary term.
“He came into Office following the passing of his father, who was also a Member of Parliament in this term. He won the By-Election and came into Office, and now, within this same term, he too has passed away. It is just a sad thing,” Mr Marape said.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the grief being felt across Maprik and East Sepik Province, particularly among communities that had placed their trust in the Kapris family.
He also conveyed condolences to People’s First Party leader Hon. Richard Maru and the party’s membership, recognising Mr Kapris’ political affiliation and contribution to Parliament.
Mr Marape said Christian faith offered strength and comfort during difficult times, encouraging the grieving family and communities to remain united.
“Some things in life we can never understand, but in faith as Christians, we acknowledge that God knows best,” he said.
The Prime Minister urged leaders and communities to honour the late MP’s memory by continuing the development work he had started for the people of Maprik.
“The least we can do is recall and remember the one who has passed, and commit ourselves to uphold and complete the work that he started,” Mr Marape said.
He emphasised that the most meaningful tribute to the late MP would be to provide practical assistance to his family while ensuring that the development aspirations of the people he represented were not forgotten.
“We honour his memory by doing good to his family and his people, and by pursuing his dreams,” he said.
Mr Marape further called on political leaders and communities to come together in compassion and solidarity, placing the welfare of the bereaved family and the people of Maprik at the centre of their response.
He reaffirmed the National Government’s commitment to honouring Mr Kapris’ memory through continued service to the people of Maprik.
“To the people of Maprik and the late Member’s immediate family, on behalf of the Government and Pangu Pati, I pass on my condolences and sympathies,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The passing of Mr Kapris leaves the Maprik Open parliamentary seat vacant, marking another loss for Papua New Guinea’s National Parliament ahead of the 2027 National General Election.