Eight of Papua New Guinea’s pioneering legislators will be honoured on Thursday as part of the 41st anniversary celebrations of the National Parliament House, alongside the unveiling of a life-size statue of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare.
Among them is Dame Josephine Abaijah, the first woman elected to the House of Assembly and a trailblazer in the nation’s political history. Sir Yano Belo, a key figure in the early years of Parliament, and Sir Pato Kakaraya, a long-serving MP and cabinet minister recognised for his work in youth empowerment, women’s development, and rural advancement, will also be present.
Organisers say their participation is a powerful reminder of the foundations laid during PNG’s formative years and the democratic values embedded in the country’s political life.
The anniversary marks not only the architectural and historical legacy of Parliament House but also the leadership, sacrifice, and service of those who helped shape the nation’s path.