Top public servants pay tribute to Dr Kalinoe

By CLIFFORD FAIPARIK
Top Government officials have paid tribute to former Justice and Attorney-General Secretary Dr Lawrence Kalinoe, pictured, for fighting for the rights of West Papuans and Bougainvilleans.
Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae said Kalinoe helped to give citizenship to West Papuan refugees residing in PNG for over 30 years.
Chief Secretary Isaac Lupari said Kalinoe helped formulate the questions for Bougainvilleans to vote during the referendum in October.
Sir Bob said yesterday, during Kalinoe’s funeral at Rev Sioni Kami Memorial Church, that he helped West Papuans get citizenship without paying the K10,000 application fees.
“When I was the PNG citizenship advisory committee chairman, through his advice and contribution, we recognised our brothers and sisters from the other side of the border by giving them free citizenship,” he said.
“He was a member of the committee.
“He was involved in law reforms in addressing family and sexual violence.
“His loss is felt by the people of PNG and also the Commonwealth, and that’s why I’m here.
“We mourn the loss of our dear friend and an outstanding Papua New Guinean.”
Lupari said Kalinoe contributed immensely to the Bougainville referendum.
“He was instrumental in formulating the questions for the referendum,” he said.
“He was responsible for the restructure of the village court system – where workers were recognised and their allowances were upgraded.”
Kalinoe was born on Nov 3, 1965, and passed on in Madang on March 3, 2019.