Namah apologises to Sir Julius

Opposition Leader Belden Namah (left) and New Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan at the opening of the new Kavieng stadium during the Independence celebrations last week in New Ireland. Namah pledged to work with Sir Julius and his Peoples Progress Party going into the 2022 General Election.

OPPOSITION Leader Belden Namah has publicly apologised to New Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan for his actions during the 1997 Sandline Crisis.
Namah, who is the Vanimo-Green MP, was a soldier who took the stand with retired Brigadier-General Jerry Singirok in opposing the Chan government to bring in international mercenaries to go into Bougainville during the Bougainville Crisis.

**SHOW TIME … A traditional dancer on stage at the recent Imbonggu cultural show at Walume in Southern Highlands last Wednesday. – Nationalpic by PETER WARI**

For his actions along with other soldiers taken, Sir Julius resigned from the post of prime minister.
Namah was in New Ireland to celebrate the Independence Day with the opening of the new Kavieng stadium last week.
“I stand by my convictions today,” Namah said.
“I also believe Sir Julius stands by his, but we all know actions do cause certain repercussions and stress on all concerned and for that, I sincerely apologise and ask God to forgive all of us.

**CELEBRATION … People from all districts in East Sepik flocked into Maprik last Thursday to celebrate the country’s Independence Day anniversary.**

“Sorry my father Sir Julius, Lady Stella and my family and the beautiful people of New Ireland.
“I believe if Sir Julius was given a few more years in the office as prime minister, he would have delivered PNG its economic independence.
“New Ireland and her people are prepared for a greater autonomy and you have my support and vote for a greater autonomy.”