Morobe unite to farewell leader

THE manifestation as one country, and one people was well evidenced as we gathered to attend the funeral service for Deputy Prime Ministe and Bulolo MP late Sam Basil.
Those residing in Lae and the rural Morobe who came together to send off the second political chief saw as a great unity in love and care as people irrespective of regions, languages, cultures or ethnicity gathered.
Openly crying and weeping for the leader as the vehicle carrying the casket of late Basil passed followed by conveys of hundreds of vehicles making their way to the Morobe Tutumang prior to the public honour the late leader at the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium.
Provincial administration, business houses, schools, markets and informal sales points came to a stop as a fitting farewell for the chief who put his people at heart.
In the political history, we have lost parliamentarians in the 10th parliament term which is a very sad scenario and we wish such would not be repeated in the 11th parliament.
The death of Sam Basil at the last minute, prior to the nomination day was heartbreaking for his electorate, the United Labour Party members, Department of Transport and Infrastructure ministry and the office of the deputy prime minister.
Other national leaders, aspiring candidates and politicians should assimilate from such situations and consider safety when travelling from one point to another, particularly at nights.
Campaigns and polling and declarations will come and go but our lives are vital to our families and friends so do take extra care at this point of time and into the future.

Jack Anis Kukiwa
Lae