Rural communities pay respects to Sir Michael

National

LIKE elsewhere around the country, communities in Tontona village in Tairora-Gasup local level government, Obura-Wonenara, Eastern Highlands, also mourned the recent passing of Papua New Guinea’s Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare.
Gordon Todd, after visiting his people, told The National that he spent three days visiting 72 haus krais (mourning houses) in 35 villages to distribute sugar and tea to the villagers who wanted to show their respects to Sir Michael.
Sir Michael passed away in Port Moresby’s Pacific International Hospital on the Feb 26 and was taken home to Kreer Heights in Wewak, East Sepik, for burial on March 16.
Sauga Nora, from Anima village, representing wards 21 and 22 of Lamari LLG, said PNG went through difficult times during the pre-independence and Sir Michael stood up with strength and wisdom to free the country from the Australian colonisers.
“I learnt much from our rural folk in the way they show respects to Sir Michael,” he said.
“The question is in the attitude of the younger generation on how they can take our country forward.
“Apart from visiting the 35 villages, I also had the opportunity to visit two primary schools and Aiyura National High School where separate ceremonies were held to honour Sir Michael.”