NCD Governor Hosts Haus Krai to Honour Late Sir Julius Chan

TNational Capital District (NCD) Governor, Hon. Powes Parkop, hosted a Haus Krai (mourning place) at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium, providing an opportunity for Members of Parliament, senior bureaucrats, and the public to pay their final respects to the last founding father of Papua New Guinea, Sir Julius Chan, who passed away last Thursday.

The solemn gathering saw Governor Parkop, Prime Minister James Marape, Members of Parliament and government officials share heartfelt tributes, recognizing former prime minister and New Ireland Governor, late Sir Julius' immense contributions to the nation.

Speaking on behalf of the municipal government, his family, and the people of NCD, Governor Parkop described Sir Julius as a man of small stature but a giant in political and business leadership.

He reflected on Sir Julius' political journey from 1939 to January 30, 2025—nearly 50 years in politics—and how his decisions, though at times controversial, shaped the nation.

"Words alone are not enough to honor his achievements. He now joins the ranks of our former Prime Ministers—Sir Michael Somare, Sir Mekere Morauta, and Sir Rabbie Namaliu. I deeply regret not visiting him last year or paying tribute while he was still alive.

I had hoped to do so in Parliament this year, but it is too late. His passing reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of appreciating those still with us."

Governor Parkop also expressed hope that Sir Julius' successor would continue pursuing key initiatives such as the Malagan Accord and provincial autonomy, which were dear to him.

Central Governor Hon. Rufina Peter described Sir Julius as a true giant, stating that his steady leadership guided the country from the dawn of independence.

She praised his commitment to unity, economic prosperity, and provincial autonomy, particularly advocating for resource owners' rights.

Opposition Leader Hon. Douglas Tomuriesa acknowledged the people of New Ireland for returning Sir Julius to Parliament for almost 50 years.

He honored Sir Julius as a defender of the Constitution who had a deep commitment to PNG's progress.

"Sadly, he closes the chapter of our nation's founders' history on the 50th anniversary of our independence. He dedicated his life to nation-building and was a key figure in strengthening our economy," he said.

Representing the judiciary, Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika described him as one of the founding fathers who gave us the best gift that is the Constitution of PNG and urged everyone to abide by it and respect this great document at the utmost level.

Former Prime Minister Hon. Peter O’Neill praised Sir Julius as a shining example of leadership, saying: "He was not just about doing good but ensuring that things were done right."

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape concluded the tributes by expressing gratitude to Sir Julius’ family and the people of New Ireland.

He acknowledged the legacy of Sir Julius and his fellow founding fathers, including the late Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare, for their role in bringing Papua New Guinea to where it is today.

On behalf of the Chan family, Byron Chan, son of the late Sir Julius, extended heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Marape, Governor Parkop, and all those who gathered to honor his father’s life and contributions.

Sir Julius Chan’s legacy as a statesman, economic visionary, and champion of PNG’s autonomy will continue to inspire future generations.

POM GENERAL HOSPITAL COMMISSIONS KEY MACHINES FOR GROUNDBREAKING KIDNEY TRANSPLANT PROGRAM

Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) is poised to make medical history with the commissioning of two state-of-the-art machines that will significantly enhance the hospital's kidney transplant program.

PMGH CEO, Dr Paki Molumi said: "This milestone marks a major achievement not only for Papua New Guinea but also for the broader Pacific region."

The recently commissioned machines, the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) Machine and the Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) Device, are set to revolutionize the way kidney transplants are managed at PMGH.

"The HLA Machine plays a critical role in compatibility testing between organ donors and recipients, ensuring successful transplants with reduced risks of rejection," said Dr Molumi.

Meanwhile, the TDM Device is designed to monitor immunosuppressive drug levels in patients after their transplants, a vital process to prevent complications and ensure long-term transplant success.

Prior to the installation of these machines, PMGH had to send blood samples overseas for testing—a process that was both time-consuming and costly. The new equipment will not only streamline transplant procedures but also reduce dependency on external laboratories, enhancing the hospital’s capacity to deliver timely, life-saving treatments.

"The commissioning of these machines represents a significant step forward in Papua New Guinea’s healthcare landscape, reflecting PMGH's commitment to advancing medical technology and providing world-class healthcare services to its people," said Dr Molumi.

Sir Julius Chan, one of Papua New Guinea's founding fathers, dies aged 85

There has been an outpouring of grief and appreciation for the life of one of the founding fathers of Papua New Guinea - Sir Julius Chan.

Sir Julius, 85, passed away in his home province of New Ireland just after midday on Thursday, marking an end to a long political career spanning half a century. Papua New Guineans dubbed him the "Last Man Standing," as he as last of the founding members of parliament from the Independence era.

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape informed members of cabinet of Sir Julius Chan's passing.

"It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of the Last Man Standing. While Sir Michael Somare was the father of our country, the late Sir Julius was the father of our modern economy. He conceived the Kina and Toea. He was our country's first finance minister and our second Prime Minister."

Marape has declared a week of national mourning to honour the life and legacy Sir Julius Chan, and announced plans for a state funeral and low key celebrations for the country's 50th independence anniversary in September.

In the annals of Papua New Guinea's political history, few figures loom as large - or as controversially - as Sir Julius Chan. A statesman whose career spans five decades, his legacy is etched with bold decisions that sparked both admiration and outrage.

From deploying troops to a Pacific neighbour to facing global criticism for being the Prime Minister who hired foreign mercenaries in a bid to end a civil war, his leadership tested the boundaries of convention and reshaped the nation's trajectory.

Sir Julius was seen as a tactician, weaving through the complexities of tribal and national politics and seizing opportunities when available. Photo: Supplied/ Peter Kinjap

Start of a long political career

He entered politics in the twilight of colonial rule. He was elected to the House of Assembly in 1968. By 1976, as PNG's first finance minister, he navigated the economic turbulence of independence, advocating for foreign investment and resource development.

Within PNG politics, Sir Julius was seen as a tactician, weaving through the complexities of tribal and national politics and seizing opportunities when available.

In 1980, he initiated the first-ever vote of no confidence motion against close friend and Prime Minister Michael Somare, ousting him on the floor of Parliament.

His first term as prime minister from 1980 to 1982, solidified his reputation as a pragmatist.

Facing fiscal strain, he championed austerity, infrastructure projects and devalued the PNG currency.

But it was a foreign policy move that drew regional attention.

Vanuatu 1980: A controversial intervention

In 1980, he authorised the deployment of PNG troops on its first international deployment: Vanuatu.

The mission was aimed at quelling a rebellion against Vanuatu's newly independent government.

In parliament, he argued that the deployment was necessary for regional stability and stamped PNG's role as an important player in the Pacific.

Critics called it overreach as PNG was not even past its first decade as an independent country. However, the deployment earned PNG the respect from Vanuatu and its Pacific neighbours - for the first time in a young nation's budding history, that standing up for a Pacific brother when no one else would, was enough for a new regional respect for PNG.

The operation ended swiftly, but the precedent set by PNG's military would reverberate for decades.

The Bougainville crisis and the mercenary gamble

His second term as prime minister from 1994 to 1997, collided with PNG's most protracted conflict: the Bougainville Civil War.

By 1996, the crisis had claimed 20,000 lives, crippled the economy, and exposed the PNG Defence Force's limitations.

Desperate to break the stalemate, his government signed a secretive $36 million contract with Sandline International, a UK-based private mercenary group, to crush the Bougainville Revolutionary Army (BRA).

When the deal leaked in 1997, public fury erupted.

The PNGDF, led by Brigadier General Jerry Singirok, arrested the mercenaries and demanded Chan's resignation.

Sir Julius stood defiant. Critics, however, saw betrayal with many saying hiring outsiders was an affront to sovereignty.

Under pressure, he stepped aside pending an inquiry. Though exonerated of corruption, his political capital evaporated. The Sandline Affair became a cautionary tale of desperation and overreach.

Resilience and redemption

His career, however, refused to end in scandal. After a decade in the political wilderness, he returned as New Ireland Governor in 2007, championing provincial autonomy and education reforms.

In 2015, he published his memoir, confronting the Sandline chapter head-on.

His peers acknowledged his tenacity with founding Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare, before his passing, pointing out how both men had separated politics from their personal friendship for over 50 years.

Culture as foundation

Despite rising to political leadership at the national level, and having a strong hand in the formation of our country's economic and financial stability, and using its young military force to nurture Pacific solidarity, Sir Julius will always be remembered for his respect of culture and tradition.

His elevation and acknowledgment of the MaiMai, New Ireland's Chieftan System as a recognised decision-making body within the New Ireland Provincial Government and the Provincial Assembly, was testament to Sir Julius' own devotion and respect for traditional New Ireland culture.

His creation of a pension for the wisened population of his home province, not only assured him continuous support from New Ireland's older population at every election, but it set an example of the importance of traditional systems of governance and decision-making.

To the world, he was a new country's financial whiz kid, growing up in an environment rooted in traditional culture, and navigating a young Papua New Guinea as a mixed race leader saw him become one of PNG's finest leaders.

To the country, he will always be remembered as the 'Last Man Standing'.

But to his people of New Ireland, he will, over the coming weeks, be accorded the highest of traditional and customary acknowledgements that only the people of New Ireland will be able to bestow on such a Great Man. A Great Chief. A Great Leader.

They will say for one last time: 'Lapun i go nau. Wok bilong em i pinis.' (The old man has left, his work here is done).

Source: HERE

Papua New Guinea Mourns the Passing of Sir Julius Chan, Founding Father and New Ireland Governor

 Papua New Guinea has lost one of its most distinguished leaders, Sir Julius Chan, the nation’s last surviving founding father and Governor of New Ireland Province. Sir Julius passed away peacefully at his residence in Huris, New Ireland Province, today at 12:30 pm, surrounded by his family and close friends. He was 85 years old and had been battling a long illness.

Known affectionately as “The Last Man Standing,” Sir Julius Chan’s death marks the end of an era for Papua New Guinea. He is survived by his wife, Lady Stella Chan, their four children—Vanessa, Byron, Mark, and Toea—as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family extended their heartfelt thanks to those who supported him throughout his life and celebrated his enduring contributions to the nation.

A towering figure in Papua New Guinea’s political landscape, Sir Julius Chan’s career spanned more than 40 years. He held numerous high-ranking positions, including Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Opposition leader, and Governor of New Ireland. Born to a mixed heritage of New Ireland and Chinese descent, Sir Julius was widely regarded as a unifying force and a visionary leader whose impact transcended generations.

Tributes from across the country have poured in, honoring his legacy as a statesman who dedicated his life to the service of Papua New Guinea. His name will forever be etched in the nation’s history, not only in its records but also in the hearts of countless citizens who admired his leadership and commitment.

Arrangements for a State funeral are currently being made, with a weeklong wake, or haus krai, scheduled to begin tonight in Port Moresby. As Papua New Guinea prepares to bid farewell to one of its greatest leaders, the nation reflects on the profound legacy left behind by Sir Julius Chan—a man whose life and work shaped the course of its history.

https://news.pngfacts.com/2025/01/papua-new-guinea-mourns-passing-of-sir.html

Sir Julius Chan, Papua New Guinea’s last ‘founding father’, dies aged 85

Outpouring of grief after death of Chan, the son of a migrant Chinese father and Indigenous mother, who served as prime minister twice

Papua New Guinea is mourning the death of Sir Julius Chan, affectionately known across the country as Sir J – the last “founding father” of the country and its second ever prime minister.

The Chan family released a statement on Thursday afternoon announcing the death of Sir Julius at the age of 85. “Our father passed away peacefully this afternoon at 12.30pm at his beloved home at Manmantinut, Huris surrounded by family and friends. We thank all those who have stood by him, and those who have shared his legacy throughout his political life from pre-independence to the time of his passing.

“He was a political icon transcending generations and his legacy will remain forever in the pages of our history books and moreso in the hearts of so many.”

The office of the prime minister, James Marape, issued a statement expressing “profound sadness … His passing comes at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, as Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence – a milestone he played a crucial role in achieving. As we reflect on our journey as a nation, we must also honour the legacy of great leaders like Sir Julius, whose vision, courage, and leadership helped shape the Papua New Guinea we know today.”

The news of his death sparked an outpouring of grief across the nation, with citizens expressing their sorrow on social media and in public gatherings. Flags were being flown at half-mast on Thursday and memorial services organised in his honour.

Born to a migrant Chinese father and an Indigenous mother, Chan overcame significant challenges to become a prominent political figure. His leadership was characterised by a commitment to national unity and development, making him a beloved figure among many Papua New Guineans.

His death will have a profound impact among Papua New Guineans who remember him as a pivotal figure in the country’s journey towards independence and development. Chan served as prime minister twice and was a key architect of Papua New Guinea’s political landscape. Across more than five decades he played a crucial role in guiding the country after it gained full independence from Australia in 1975. He served as a member of parliament for New Ireland province, and remained its governor at the time of his death.

Chan’s autobiography, Playing the Game, offers insights into his life and the complexities of his political journey, reflecting on the cultural and historical contexts that shaped his decisions. He is survived by his wife, Lady Stella Chan, and children Vanessa, Byron, Mark and Toea.

Map of Melanesia Culture Area

President Donald Trump breaks the divorce law that has been tormenting men in the US

BREAKING NEWS 

President Donald Trump breaks the divorce law that has been tormenting men in the US.

Divorce has become a very lucrative business for women in the United States and I'm gonna put an end to it. If a woman marries a rich man, it doesn't mean she gets to leave as a rich woman after divorce. 

If upon divorce the woman needs money, the man can borrow her a maximum of $1-million if she has a colleteral. $1-million isn't alot of money for the rich man but it should be a lot about for the woman because she didn't work for it. 

If I'm worth $50-million, I'm not gonna give you $25-million after divorce. It's my money and I worked very hard for it. I don't care if we've been married for 6 years or even 25 years or even have children. If you don't have enough money to take care of our children, leave them with me. I think that just because  somebody marries somebody that built something huge, doesn't necessarily mean that just because they get a divorce, that they should end up like the Queen of Sheba”.

On the Same note President Trump hits on Gay and Transgender Group and Thier organization LGBTQ+Saying that “There Are Only Two Genders in the world (Male and Female)

Many Nations in the world particularly the African Countries applauded for such radical decisions since they alliance with African cultures and norms, they termed them as not just human rights but natural rights from the creation.