Chan shocked by Kama’s passing

 NEW Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan (pictured) has expressed shock and sorrow at the passing of Steven Pirika Kama, the Minister assisting with autonomy and Bougainville affairs.

Chan said Kama was a real friend of New Ireland who had strongly supported autonomy and in February 2013, “we signed the Declaration of Commitment to Autonomy for New Ireland in Kavieng”.

The governor said, Kama was a key player in moving New Ireland further along the road to autonomy and he would be sorely missed.

Chan expressed his sincere condolences to Kama’s family and the people of South Bougainville.

“Words cannot express the pain and sorrow felt by his wife and family, but hope they can remember during this difficult time that Kama was respected, trusted by those who worked with him,” Sir Julius said.

 “The best way for us to honour and celebrate Kama’s life and values is to continue the work he began.  

 “Steven helped us to move further along the road not only to autonomy, but to the establishment of a government that genuinely cared about the people. 

 “We in New Ireland will not forget him. He  will remain an inspiration to all of us to do the best we can to improve the lives of our people.”