Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has praised Eastern Highlands Governor and esteemed businessman Hon. Simon Sia for his exceptional efforts in fostering unity among the leaders of the province.
During a momentous gathering of thousands of individuals at rural Lufa Station, Eastern Highlands, on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, where the Lufa District Five-Year Development Plan 2023-2027 was launched, PM Marape expressed his appreciation for Governor Sia’s remarkable achievements.
Governor Sia, despite his affiliation with Peter O’Neill’s People’s National Congress, wholeheartedly supported PM Marape’s appointment as Prime Minister in August of last year and has consistently stood by the Government in all crucial parliamentary matters.
Among his notable accomplishments is the successful consolidation of all Eastern Highlands MPs, which had never been accomplished before, in a collaborative effort for the betterment of the province.
Eastern Highlands MPs now convene regular meetings to address significant challenges facing the province, overcoming political differences that once hindered progress.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to Governor Simon Sia for unifying the entire Eastern Highlands leadership, from Obura-Wonenara to Kainantu, all the way to Daulo,” stated PM Marape.
“Governor Sia has demonstrated exceptional leadership in maintaining the solidarity of the Eastern Highlands province during his tenure as governor.
“I would like to commend the new leadership of Eastern Highlands, led by Governor Sia, for consistently aligning with the Government on vital issues, despite any opposing views. This includes their pivotal role in electing me as Prime Minister in August 2022.
“The new leadership of Eastern Highlands comprises Governor Sia, Obura-Wonenara MP Hon. John Boito, Kainantu MP Hon. William Hagahuno, Daulo MP Hon. Ekime Gorosahu, Unggai-Bena MP Hon. Kinoka Feo, and Lufa MP Hon. Simo Kilepa. They join incumbent MPs such as Okapa MP Hon. Saki Soloma, Goroka MP Hon. Aiye Tambua, and Henganofi MP Hon. Robert Atiyafa in advocating for greater utilisation of our country’s resources.”