Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea: Prime Minister James Marape today (01.04.26) called on the people of Papua New Guinea to embrace the spirit of the resurrection as a catalyst for national renewal, tribal reconciliation, and collective peace.
Speaking to the nation as it celebrates its first Easter after the 50-year Inde-pendence celebration, the Prime Minister centered his message on three core pillars: Unity, Forgiveness, and Peace. He urged citizens to look past ethnic and provincial boundaries to build a “Greater Papua New Guinea.”
A Call to Overcome Tribalism
Acknowledging the country’s vast diversity of over 800 languages, the Prime Minister identified tribalism and “wantok” favoritism as significant hurdles to pro-gress. He challenged citizens to adopt a “national love” that transcends clan lineages.
“To build a Greater Papua New Guinea, we must move beyond our ethnic boundaries and embrace a national love that seeks the well-being of every citizen,” the Prime Minister stated, citing the biblical principle of selfless love as the ultimate blueprint for the nation.
Strength Through Forgiveness
A central theme of the address was the necessity of forgiveness in breaking cycles of violence. The Prime Minister made a direct appeal to community leaders, elders, and youth to find the courage to let go of “the heavy stones of past conflicts.”
“Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness; it is the ultimate sign of strength,” he said. “It is the only foundation for a united nation.”
A Vision for Lasting Peace
The Prime Minister defined peace not merely as the absence of conflict, but as the presence of justice, safety, and respect. He visualized a future where children attend school without fear and mothers can trade in security. Page 2 of 2
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to these values, he empha-sized that true national healing requires the participation of every citizen.
“A government alone cannot heal a nation’s heart,” he noted. “That work be-longs to you.”
Looking Toward the Future
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister invited the nation into a period of self-reflection during this milestone 50th-anniversary year. He encouraged every individual to seek personal change as a prerequisite for national impact.
The address ended with a blessing for the Independent State of Papua New Guinea and a wish for a peaceful Easter season for all families across the high-lands and coastal islands.