At the National Haus Krai for Right Hon. Sir Julius Chan, held at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex on Sunday (February 2, 2025) evening, Prime Minister Hon. James Marape delivered a stirring tribute to one of Papua New Guinea’s most distinguished leaders, honouring his lifelong dedication to the country.
The National Haus Krai marked a historic moment of national reflection and unity, as Papua New Guinea came together to mourn one of its greatest sons, whose contributions will forever be etched in the nation’s history.
Speaking before a gathering of national leaders, dignitaries, and citizens, Prime Minister Marape acknowledged the immense loss felt across the country.
“Sir Julius was more than a leader. He was a son of this country, a father to this nation, and a statesman who gave his all,” he said.
“He was there when our flag was first raised. He was there when we took our first steps as a free people. His legacy is woven into the very fabric of our nation.”
Reflecting on the passing of Papua New Guinea’s founding leaders, Prime Minister Marape remarked on the significance of this moment in PNG’s 50-year journey.
“In 2020, God called home Sir Mekere Morauta. In 2021, God called home Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare. In 2023, Sir Rabbie passed. And it is now in 2025, right at the eve of our 50th anniversary programme… We are seeing at the 50th anniversary many of the fathers and mothers of our country passing on.”
Prime Minister Marape urged Papua New Guineans to recognise the responsibility now placed upon the next generation.
“Sir Julius, like Sir Michael, belonged to my father’s generation. And so, my brothers and sisters sitting here on my right (Sir Julius’ family), you are in my generation. Together, we must all rise up and grasp the future that is ahead of us and shape it for the betterment of our children.”
The Prime Minister revealed that Sir Julius wished for a simple, dignified farewell, reflecting the humility that defined his leadership.
“One of his sons called me and said, ‘Brother, don’t do extravagant work, don’t do any extravagance. Sir Julius would just want to go out easy, less costly, less burdensome to the state.’ That is real service to our country, even in passing,” Prime Minister Marape shared.
He also announced a national moment of respect, urging Papua New Guineans to pause and reflect on Sir Julius’ legacy.
“Tomorrow (Monday, February 3, 2025), the nation will pay respect at Parliament. But I want the country to be toned down. Classes to freeze, work to cease, courtrooms to stop, police to cease working. Every one of you out there, cease from your work. Here is someone who was amongst the pioneers of our country that ushered our country into sovereignty that we so enjoy today.”
In addition, he confirmed that Parliament will dedicate two full days in March to honouring Sir Julius Chan, ensuring that his contributions are properly recognised at the highest level.
In a powerful message to today’s leaders and citizens, Prime Minister Marape emphasised the need to move forward with unity and purpose.
“Let’s forget about criticising the past. We can relive the past. We say thank you to them. They’re human beings like us… Let us rise up and do better for our country, leaving the blame of the past. Let’s construct the future that our children so deserve.”
Expressing personal gratitude, he acknowledged Sir Julius’ role in shaping his own political journey.
“I was privileged to have been endorsed by him in 2002… I just want to say thank you very much.”
As he concluded his heartfelt tribute, Prime Minister Marape reassured the Chan family and the people of Papua New Guinea that Sir Julius’ name and legacy would never be forgotten.
“Sir Julius, though you are physically gone, you are forever in our hearts. We’ll try our best to take your country forward.”