Prime Minister James Marape has called on Papua New Guineans to use National Remembrance Day to honor the sacrifices of past generations and recommit themselves to building a stronger nation.
In his National Remembrance Day message last week, PM Marape said the occasion should recognize not only those who served during World War II, but also the pioneers, leaders, public servants, security personnel, churches and ordinary citizens whose contributions helped shape Papua New Guinea.
“As we observe National Remembrance Day, I encourage our people to remember not only soldiers who lost their lives during World War II, but also the many innocent Papua New Guineans whose lives were caught up in a conflict that was never of our making,” he said in a statement.
PM Marape said Papua New Guinea was an innocent participant in the Second World War while still under Australian administration, with many communities suffering displacement, hardship and loss.
“We must remember that World War II was not our war. Our people were innocent participants in a conflict that was never ours, yet they endured suffering, displacement and loss. Today we honor their resilience, courage and humanity,” he said.
He said the experiences of that period helped awaken national consciousness, eventually leading to Papua New Guinea’s Independence in 1975.
PM Marape paid tribute to the country’s founding leaders, including Sir John Guise, Sir Michael Somare and members of the first Legislative Council, for laying the foundations of the nation’s democracy.
He also honored members of the Papua New Guinea Defense Force, Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, Correctional Service, Fire and Rescue Service, public servants, churches, teachers, health workers and community leaders for their service over the past 50 years.
“Remembrance is about every generation that has contributed to our country’s story. It is about those who defended our land, those who built our institutions, those who served our communities, and those who dedicated their lives to making Papua New Guinea a better nation,” PM Marape said.
As Papua New Guinea marks its 51st year of Independence, he said National Remembrance Day provides an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the nation’s achievements and their responsibility to future generations.
“Those who came before us sacrificed so that we could inherit this nation. Today it becomes our responsibility to ensure we leave behind a stronger, safer and more prosperous Papua New Guinea for our children,” he said.
PM Marape encouraged all Papua New Guineans to serve the nation through honest work, integrity and leadership.
“Whatever your hands can find to do, whatever your mind inspires you to accomplish, wherever your feet may take you, and whatever gifts God has given you, use them in service of your country,” he said.
He said sacrifice was not limited to times of war but was equally important during times of peace.
“As we commemorate this National Remembrance Day in the year of our Golden Jubilee, let us reset our minds, recalibrate our purpose, and recommit ourselves to building a nation worthy of the sacrifices of those who came before us,” PM Marape said.