Parlt set for special sitting

The Eastern Highlands community in Port Moresby held a peaceful march on Monday to mourn the death of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare. They painted their faces with mud as a sign of mourning. – Nationalpic by PATRICIA KEAMO

PREPARATIONS have begun at Parliament House for the special parliament sitting next Thursday where the body of Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare will lie in State.
Parliament Clerk Kala Aufa told The National that discussions were being held and processes put in place to cater for Sir Michael’s State funeral.

Spectators standing to observe a one minute silence in respect to the passing of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare in Port Moresby last Sunday at the Women National Soccer League match between Genesis and Hekari. – Nationalpic by PATRICIA KEAMO

Prime Minister James Marape had announced the funeral programme for two weeks leading up to the special parliamentary session followed by the funeral the next day.
Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae, Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika and other dignitaries would be attending the State funeral in Parliament.

Prime Minister James Marape greeting Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare at the funeral of the late Sir Mekere Morauta in Port Moresby in January. Seated beside Sir Michael is ABG President Ishmael Toroama. – Nationalfilepic

“We are waiting for confirmation from the PNG Defence Force for the pall bearers,” Aufa said.
“Other details are yet to be confirmed before we release the programme.”
Aufa said MPs would be expected to attend.

**East Sepik Governor Allan Bird greeting Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare at an event in Port Moresby last year. – Nationalfilepic**

Sir Michael during his term as prime minister initiated the construction of Parliament House also referred to as the “Haus Tambaran” (house of the spirits).
It was officially opened in 1985 and coincided with Prince Charles’ visit.
To signify the importance of the house, flute players from the Murik Lakes were brought into the Parliament House.
They performed a traditional chant, calling spirits into the Parliament House.