Donigi’s influence will remain a beacon for many

 FROM the news we are getting, it seems that the late prominent lawyer and ambassador, Peter Donigi, was not accorded the honour and respect he deserved. 

I did not know him, but was told that he was an intelligent and smart man. 

Almost 10 years ago, during a student crisis, a university student taught by Donigi said that the professor urged them to use their heads, not bellies, to see themselves through issues with good decision-making as it was better to think  like  a  bird  that could see far, rather  than  a pig that could not. 

My own assessment of the man from reading his letters and commentaries in the papers is that he was an intellect, a true Melanesian and possessed values. 

His views on different issues were very simple and easy to understand.

It is unfortunate the he did not get into parliament because he would have made  a lot of contribution in breaking down hard, western ideologies for the masses to understand as well  as  encouraged  them to decide which we should adopt, adapt and use or discard. 

I know Donigi had that ability to challenge us in the way we think. 

I  thank the Lowan people  of  East  Sepik and Donigi’s family for helping our country in many ways. 

We are thankful that he left  a lot of things behind; his books, papers and influence.

In a few years, some young  minds  will take over the baton Donigi carried while he served as an ambassador and lawyer. 

We will remember Donigi  and  continue  to use our  heads  and reach higher like birds. 

PNG Tauna

Port Moresby