Sunday, 24th August, 2025
Prime Minister James Marape has called on all Papua New Guineans to come together in prayer on August 26, National Repentance Day, as the country marks its 50th independence anniversary.
Speaking at the second day of the Jubilee Reset Gospel Music Festival in Port Moresby, Marape reminded the crowd that since 1975 Papua New Guinea has remained one nation under God’s grace, despite its more than 840 languages and 1,000 tribes.
“On Tuesday, August 26, is our National Repentance Day. I call on every boy, girl, man and woman across our country to pause and pray,” Marape said.
“Our founding fathers, led by Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, declared PNG a nation under God in 1975. In 2008, Sir Michael reminded us again when he established Repentance Day. As we celebrate 50 years, let us return to God.”
The Prime Minister also challenged young men to rise up and take responsibility for protecting their families, communities and the future of the nation.
He urged youth to stay away from drugs, alcohol and crime, instead standing firm in faith and service.
“Our country needs sons and daughters who worship God and who stand tall for Jesus in their communities,” he said.
Marape ended his speech by encouraging Christians from all denominations to unite in prayer and worship.
He later joined in singing the gospel song Awesome God with his choir brothers Footprint.
The Jubilee Reset Festival marks the beginning of a month-long celebration leading up to Independence Day on September 16, 2025, when Papua New Guinea officially turns 50.