Tuesday 18th April 2023
Honorable Timothy Masiu, the Minister for Information and Communications Technology (ICT), paid his final respects to the late Sir Rabbie Namaliu, former Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, at the Independence Hill in Port Moresby.
Sir Rabbie’s body was laid to rest on April 18, 2023, in the presence of a gathering of dignitaries, including the Governor General of PNG Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, other state Ministers and Members of Parliament, the Diplomatic corps, Sir Rabbie’s family, and people from Kokopo, East New Britain, and Papua New Guinea who watched the proceedings live.
Minister Masiu laid his wreath on behalf of the Ministry of ICT, the People of South Bougainville, his family, and himself. He was accompanied by the Executive Manager for Digital Government and Shared Services, Mr. Robertson Asari, who laid another wreath representing the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).
In Minister Masiu’s tribute, he praised Sir Rabbie’s visionary leadership and dedication to the development of the nation. He emphasized that Sir Rabbie’s contributions to Papua New Guinea’s political, social, and economic progress would continue to inspire future generations.
Minister Masiu expressed his heartfelt condolences to Sir Rabbie’s family, friends, and colleagues, acknowledging that the country has lost a great statesman and beloved leader. He urged all Papua New Guineans to honor Sir Rabbie’s legacy by upholding the values of unity, peace, and progress that he championed throughout his illustrious career.
Sir Rabbie Namaliu passed away on April 8, 2023, at the age of 73, after a long illness. He served as the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea from 1988 to 1992 and was widely respected as a skilled negotiator, diplomat, and advocate for regional cooperation.
The nation mourns the loss of this remarkable leader, and his legacy will forever be remembered.