Papua New Guinea will observe a two-week mourning period for its founding prime minister Michael Somare until March 12th 2021. The government has declared March 1st and 12th as public holidays.
On these days, officials will reduce government services, and business disruptions are likely nationwide. Essential government and emergency functions, such as hospitals and public utilities, will continue to operate.
About Michael Somare
Known across the country simply as "The Chief", Michael Somare was Papua New Guinea’s longest-serving leader after it became independent of Australia in 1975. He was Prime Minister for 17 years during four separate periods.
He died February 26th 2021, aged 84, after being diagnosed with late-stage pancreatic cancer and admitted to a hospital on February 19th, his daughter Betha Somare said.
“Sir Michael was a loyal husband to our mother and great father first to her children, then grandchildren and great-granddaughter. But we are endeared that many Papua New Guineans equally embraced Sir Michael as father and grandfather,” she said.
