Change to anthem lyrics ‘illegal’

 By CLIFFORD FAIPARIK

THE change made to the lyrics of the national anthem sung during the Pacific Games Opening ceremony was illegal and a violation of the National Identify Act, an official says.

National Museum and Art Gallery director Dr Andrew Moutu said: “Only Parliament can make such an amendment and no other person or organisation can usurp that authority to alter the national anthem.”

The change was made to the first line of the anthem. The original verse states: O arise all ye sons of this land. It was changed to O arise sons and daughters of this land.

Body of Christ chairman Rev Joseph Walters, who blessed the event on Saturday night, called on the Sports Minister Justin Tkatchenko to investigate the changing of the lyrics. 

“The manner in which the national anthem was sung was disrespectful and unpatriotic,” he said.

“The second part – Now gives thanks to the good Lord above – was totally omitted.”

But Tkatchenko said everyone had their own opinions on how the opening ceremony was conducted.

“Let the people decide what they think. Everyone has their own opinion and that’s great. Criticism is good, it makes you stronger to do better,” he said. Moutu said the national anthem was part of the framework to building the PNG national identity.

He said national flag, national emblem, national pledge, national honours and awards system were protected under the National Identity Act.