By DALCY LULUA
DEPUTY Prime Minister and Member for Lae, Hon. John Rosso has described Sir Julius’ passing as an immense loss to the country.
“Sir Julius’s passing is an immense loss to our country, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the people of New Ireland, close friends, colleagues, former and current employees and the nation as a whole.
“Special mention to his wife Lady Stella Chan, and four children Venessa, Byron, Mark and Toea. Sir Julius was a great husband, father, grandfather and leader in his home and community.
“On the eve of our country’s 50th Independence Anniversary, on January 30 this year, Papua New Guinea lost one of our last founding fathers of our nation “The Last Man Standing”, the late Grand Chief, Right Honorable Sir Julius Chan.
“I rise today to pay tribute to a true statesman, a visionary leader, and one of Papua New Guinea’s founding fathers, who steered our country into self-governance and independence and was the forefront of our country’s economic development,” Rosso said.
The Deputy Prime Minister sincerely highlighted the humble beginnings of late Sir J, from his young age to a venerated statesman.
“Sir Julius was part and parcel of establishing pillars of our nation. He dedicated his life to public service, leading with wisdom, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Papua New Guinea.
“He was a man of extraordinary political acumen, a leader who played a pivotal role in shaping our nation from its early days of independence.”
“As one of our Prime Ministers, Sir Julius made immense contributions to economic reforms, governance, and national development,” Rosso said.
“His leadership in driving economic policies and fostering private sector growth remains a cornerstone of our progress today.
“He understood that for Papua New Guinea to thrive, it had to embrace both tradition and modernity—balancing our rich cultural heritage with economic advancement.”
The Deputy Prime Minister also outlined Sir Julius’s contributions in shaping the nation’s political and economic landscape.
“As the architect of our national currency, the Kina and Toea, he played a pivotal role in strengthening PNG’s sovereignty and financial independence. His leadership as Minister for Finance in 1975 laid the foundation for economic stability and self-reliance.”
“Through the People’s Progress Party (PPP), which he co-founded and led with distinction, Sir Julius championed economic growth, political stability and provincial autonomy.
“Beyond politics, Sir Julius was a man of great integrity, diplomacy, and wisdom. A true patriot, Sir Julius dedicated his life to public service, mentoring future leaders and advocating for the prosperity of our people. His legacy in governance, economic policy, and nation building will continue to inspire generations.
“As we pay tribute to Sir Julius today, let us also celebrate his life and legacy. Let us honor his memory by continuing the work he started—building a stronger, united, and prosperous Papua New Guinea.
“On behalf of my family and the people of Lae, I pay tribute to the late Grand Chief Right Honorable, Sir Julius Chan—an extraordinary leader, a founding father, and a true statesman of Papua New Guinea.”
Rosso was speaking during yesterday’s tribute session of parliament.
