Kabui farewelled
By HARLYNE JOKU
HUNDREDS of people gathered yesterday to farewell Joseph Kabui, the first president of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.
A State funeral in honour of the leader was held at the St Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral in Port Moresby yesterday.
The mourners were led by Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare. Also present was Chief Justice Sir Mari Kapi, Government ministers and departmental heads, heads of overseas missions, and members of the Autonomous Bougainville Government.
A moving Catholic requiem mass was said in honour of Kabui, 54, who died of a suspected heart attack.
Mourners filled the church as touching hymns in the Bougainville dialect, Tok Pisin and English were sung. Many expressed grief and solemn when they walked up to view Kabui’s body and pay their last respects.
In his tribute, the Prime Minister described Kabui as a good family man; an active member of his community, and a man of peace.
He said Kabui was committed to peace which was evident in his efforts where he led negotiations, and had them signed in order to restore peace on Bougainville.
Sir Michael said when Joseph Kabui stood for the ABG presidency, he was doing so within the framework of a part of the National Constitution and an Organic Law specifically committed, as their names make clear to peace-building in Bougainville.
“He did so because of his commitment to peace.
“He continued to work hard in meeting his responsibilities as ABG president, despite his failing health,” Sir Michael said.
Former Catholic archbishop Brian Barnes described Kabui as a leader who strived for justice, peace and unity in PNG and Bougainville.
ABG’s minister for commerce and trade Joseph Watawi said despite criticisms, the autonomous government will pursue the ownership of Bougainville’s rich mineral resources and the Bougainville Copper Mine and the Bougainville Resource Development Corporation.
He said BRDC is a concept and the brainchild of the late president.
Mr Watawi said the issue of ownership of resources was close to Kabui’s heart in his last days. He described Kabui as a leader with revolutionary concept that challenged colonial models of mining and ownership.
Alfreda Kabui, daughter of the late president, delivered a moving tribute to her father, describing him as a poor man who gave unconditional love to his wife and family.
She said despite certain people and groups calling her father corrupt, he had died a poor man without a fat bank account and luxurious lifestyle.
“He died a simple and poor man but with unconditional love for his wife and daughters,” she said.
Australian High Commissioner Chris Moraitius appealed for peace to continue on Bougainville.
Kabui’s body will be flown to Rabaul today, and then onto Buka for a traditional burial.
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