Colourful performances to mark opening

THE opening of Parliament yesterday was a spectacle of colours – from the marching bands, to members of the judiciary in full attire, to some of the unique cultural performances.
Of the four cultural groups which performed yesterday, one travelled all the way from their village in Gulf for the privilege to grace the occasion.
The Lese Olai group from the village of the same name in East Kerema, received special attention as they were invited to lunch on behalf of Gulf Governor Chris Haiveta who is from the same village.
Spokesman Elvis Leslie said the group had been registered with the PNG Tourism Authority since 2018. It performed during the Rugby League World Cup that same year.
They also performed during the 2018 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Summit in Port Moresby.
“This is our third biggest event,” he said.
“We were asked to perform by a parliament staff who is also from Gulf since she was aware of who were are.
“We are honoured to take part.”
It only took them a day to prepare and travel to Port Moresby.
“We brought the young ones along as well because our culture is dying out.
“Through such events we can keep it alive,” he said. The youngest in the 15-member group is 11 who had to take a few days off school to be in Parliament. The oldest is 64.