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THE visionary leadership of our Founding Fathers has ensured that Papua New Guinea remains a thriving democracy after 49 years of political independence, says Pangu Pati Elder Toni Ila.
Mr Ila, aged 86, is a former four-term Lae MP and State Minister. He is the last surviving member of the original Pangu Council headed by late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare.
“As the last surviving Pangu Elder, I pay tribute to our Founding Fathers whom I had the greatest pleasure of working with during the formative years.
“Sir Michael Somare, Sir Albert Maori Kiki and Sir Julius Chan led our team of pioneer politicians and bureaucrats that built the solid foundation on which PNG now stands. Our thriving democracy and unique constitution are testimony to their visionary leadership and patriotism.
“The past 49 years have not been smooth sailing but as PNG approaches its Golden Jubilee, the political leadership must ensure that economic prosperity and social wellbeing are enhanced so that our people can celebrate this unique occasion with pride and joy.
“I believe the Marape-Rosso Government’s biggest challenge over the next 12 months is to overcome PNG’s current economic and social woes, including the upsurge in serious crime and lawlessness, and increase growth and wealth to much higher levels.
“I am very happy that our Pangu Leader and Prime Minister Hon. James Marape survived last week’s Vote of No Confidence (VoNC) and can now concentrate on major issues at stake.
“However, he must take heed of the red flags on high inflation, high unemployment, rising costs of living, as well as law and order issues. Unless his Government resolves these issues, PM Marape can expect another VoNC within the next 24 months.
“I hope and pray that our beloved country will recover from its current woes in time for the 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16, 2025. God bless PNG.”
Originally from Ihu in Gulf Province, Mr Ila served as Lae MP and held several ministries, including Labour and Foreign Affairs, in the Pangu-led governments after independence.
