Maimai from New Ireland perform traditional ritual to handover body of Sir Julius to state

A traditional ritual performance was made by two New Ireland Maimai to officially handover the body of Sir Julius Chan to the state.

This solemn ceremony marks honoring both cultural traditions and state protocol was staged at the Apec Terminal where the casket of the late Sir J received by the National government.

Prime Minister James Marape expressed gratitude to the New Ireland provincial government, the immediate family, and the New Ireland community for the official handover.

"Sir Julius has done a lot for this country, and he deserves to rest. I appreciate the Maimai for conducting this official handover," Marape said.

The body now rests at Erima funeral home.

According to a tentative program, there will be a chapel viewing by family and VIPs tomorrow, Saturday 01s February before a public memorial at the Sir John Guise stadium from 11- 2pm.

Customary obligations are expected to be carried out as well during this time.

A state funeral will be held for one of the country's founding father on Sunday from 1-3 pm at the Sir John Guise stadium.

He will be accorded a lie-in-state at Parliament house on Monday, 3rd February from 9-12 pm, before departing for Kavieng.

The Kavieng leg of the journey, will see Sir Julius casket brought to the Legislative Assembly hall around 2:30 pm and overnighting at his official government residence.

There will be a public mass at Kavieng stadium on Tuesday, 4th February from 9-10 am, before Sir Julius casket is brought to the 3 council chambers of Tikana, Konos and Namatanai for various customary obligations to be performed.

His casket will overnight at his home at Huris, where he will be received by his clan of Nokon.

The country's last man standing will be laid to rest on Wednesday 5th February, at around 11 am.