Imbonggu District to name new oval in Honor of Late Grand Chief Somare for Golden Jubilee Celebration
The Imbonggu District Development Authority is building a new commemorative oval in front of the district administration office in Walume, Imbonggu District.
This oval will be named in honor of Papua New Guinea's founding Prime Minister, the Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, as part of the country's 50th Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2025.
Local MP and Minister for Justice and Attorney General, Pila Niningi, emphasized the importance of reflecting on the legacy that the Late Grand Chief brought to the nation.
“We owe much to our founding leaders, the first government, public service, and Judiciary, who have guided us from the stone age into the global village,” said Minister Niningi.
He acknowledged the mixed impact of modernization, recognizing both the challenges and the opportunities it has created for growth.
“As we look to the future, we bear the responsibility of building a stronger, united nation,” he added.
Minister Niningi’s loyalty to the Pangu Pati, dating back to his early political career, aligns well with the tribute.
As a member who has long contested under the Pangu banner, Niningi believes naming the new oval after Sir Michael Somare is a fitting tribute to the Grand Chief.
Niningi also recalled Sir Michael's last visit to the district during the 2019 Independence celebration, a memory he holds with pride.
“His visit underscored his unwavering commitment to the Pangu Pati and his connection to our district. Naming this oval after him will ensure future generations remember his tremendous legacy,” he said.
“By honoring him, we believe Imbonggu has received his blessing and God’s favor. This oval, located where he last visited, will be a lasting tribute to his legacy, ready to open in conjunction with our Golden Jubilee celebrations.”
During a recent site visit, Minister Niningi inspected the stonewall and drainage work led by Honime Timbers, and he's satisfied with the work in progress.
