Prime Minister James Marape has paid tribute to the late Minister for Works & Highways, Solan Mirisim, describing him as a national leader whose life of service, faith and commitment to rural development will continue to guide Papua New Guinea’s nation-building efforts.
Speaking during customary and family commemorations held in Telefomin on Sunday, Mr Marape thanked the Department of Works Secretary and staff, provincial and district leaders, and family members for honoring the late Minister in accordance with PNG’s cultural traditions.
The Prime Minister said observing custom was not optional, but a constitutional and moral obligation of leadership.
“Our Constitution directs us not to depart from our Papua New Guinea ways. Custom, faith and family are fundamental to who we are as a nation, and they remain central even at the highest levels of leadership,” PM Marape said.
He described the late Minister as a leader whose influence extended beyond Cabinet, noting his ability to unite people across cultural, religious and political lines.
“He was a man who understood service — to family, to community and to country. His leadership was grounded in humility, faith and responsibility,” Mr Marape said.
He acknowledged the deep grief still felt by the family, but urged unity, strength and continuity, particularly for the children and future generations.
“Life must go on, even as we carry our loss. Our responsibility to our children and our people must remain strong,” he said.
PM Marape reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to completing and expanding the late Minister’s work, particularly in connecting rural and remote districts through roads and essential infrastructure.
He said the Minister was a strong advocate of the Government’s national development philosophy of leaving no place, no person and no child behind.
“That vision will live on. We will continue to push roads and infrastructure into remote districts, border areas and underserved communities. Connectivity is nation-building,” Mr Marape said.
The Prime Minister welcomed discussions on establishing an education-focused initiative in the late Minister’s name, aimed at supporting students and high-performing children from the district.
“The most enduring legacy we can leave is education. By investing in our children, we honor his life and ensure his work continues long after us,” Mr Marape said.
He said the Government would work with district leadership to support education-centered initiatives that build discipline, opportunity and future leadership.
With national elections approaching, the Prime Minister called on district leaders and administrators to maintain unity, stability and responsible governance.
“Leadership is not defined by one election or one term. Reputation, service and integrity endure,” he said.
Mr Marape concluded by assuring the family and community that the late Minister’s contribution to Papua New Guinea would never be forgotten.