Shacklady and Aibo legacies honoured at PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary

Papua New Guinea marked its 50th Independence Anniversary this morning with a grand flag-raising ceremony at Independence Hill, honouring the legacies of two men who shaped the nation’s identity in Thomas Shacklady, composer of the national anthem “O Arise, All You Sons”, and George Aibo, the soldier who first raised the national flag in 1975.

The ceremony began with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary Band leading the crowd in the national anthem. Acting Band Master Richard Gei said the performance carried deep meaning on this golden jubilee.

“It was special because it revived a spirit of pride and unity, reflecting Shacklady’s contribution to our national identity,” Gei said.

The event also paid tribute to the late George Aibo, whose historic raising of the PNG flag 50 years ago symbolised the country’s transition from colonial rule to sovereignty.

Organisers said the ceremony was not only a celebration of independence but also a reminder of the enduring values of unity, courage, and national pride embodied by Shacklady and Aibo. Their legacies, they added, will continue to inspire future generations, serving as a guiding light as PNG charts its path for the next 50 years of nationhood.