Era of great newsmen ends with Hau’ofa’s passing, says Momis

THE passing of Roger Hau’ofa signifies the end of an era; an era of the great newsmen of PNG who guided the early stages of journalism in PNG from its infant stages into the vibrant media industry that exists today.
ABG President Dr John Momis (pictured) made the statement as he paid tribute to the legendary broadcaster.
“For more than 30 years Papua New Guinea’s airwaves were graced by the voice of this great man who guided us through some of this nation’s most difficult times as he offered a voice of reason and comfort to countless Papua New Guineans who would tune into to his Talk Back Show,” Momis said.
“The late Roger Hau’ofa epitomised the values of true journalism and broadcasting; his views were objective, concise and straight to the point.
“He played host to prime ministers, ministers and many leaders in the country because his Talk Back Show presented an opportune time for average Papua New Guineans to directly converse with their leaders on important issues affecting the country.”
Momis said Hau’ofa strove to ensure the welfare of the common men and women of this nation.
He was a firm believer in the principles of social justice and used his influence as PNG’s foremost broadcaster to give a voice to the people of this nation.
He said that Hau’ofa always believed in the goodness of the common people and favoured measures to eliminating inequity; promoting inclusiveness of diversity; and establishing environments that are supportive of all people in spite of their race or creed.
“He was a staunch nationalist and believer in PNG as a country and as people destined for greatness,” Momis said.
Momis on behalf of the Autonomous Bougainville Government and the people of Bougainville offered his sincerest condolences to the family of the late Roger Hau’ofa.
“He will be forever immortalised as one of the great broadcasters this nation has ever seen and his presence on the airwaves will surely be missed by Papua New Guineans in all walks of life,” Momis said.