Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, February 3, 2025

At the National Haus Krai for the late Right Hon. Sir Julius Chan, held at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex on Sunday, February 2, 2025, Prime Minister Hon. James Marape delivered a heartfelt tribute, honoring one of Papua New Guinea’s most distinguished leaders and his lifelong service to the nation.
The event was a historic moment of national reflection and unity, as Papua New Guineans gathered to mourn and celebrate the life of a statesman whose contributions are forever etched in the country’s history.
Speaking before 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 highlighted the significance of this moment in the country’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 now, in 2025, right on the eve of our 50th anniversary programme… We are seeing many of the fathers and mothers of our country passing on.”
He urged Papua New Guineans to recognize the responsibility now placed on 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 shared that Sir Julius had wished for a modest and dignified farewell, reflecting his humility in 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.
Prime Minister Marape announced a nationwide 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 among 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 formally honor Sir Julius Chan, ensuring his contributions are recognized at the highest level.
Prime Minister Marape emphasized 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.”
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 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.”