BODY OF LATE WORKS MINISTER SOLAN MIRISIM ARRIVES IN TELEFOMIN AS LEADERS PAY TRIBUTE

The body of the late Minister for Works and Highways, Hon. Solan Mirisim, arrived in Telefomin today from Vanimo, where he was received by grieving family members, his people, community leaders and a high-level delegation of national and regional leaders who gathered to honor his life and service.

The late minister’s casket was accompanied by leaders from the Greater Sepik region, including Member for Vanimo-Green Hon. Beldan Namah, Member for Nuku Hon. Joe Sungi, Sandaun Governor Hon. Tony Wouwou, Member for Aitape–Lumi Hon. Anderson Mise, and Madang Governor Hon. Ramsey Pariwa.

Senior officials and dignitaries were also present, including the Secretary for Works and Highways, Mr. Gibson Holemba, and Managing Director of Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML), Mr. Kedi Ilimbit, accompanied by the OTML management and team.

The Lord Mayor of Telefomin delivered the official welcome remarks, acknowledging the significance of the late minister’s return to his home district and the impact of his work on Telefomin and other remote communities across Papua New Guinea.

A series of tribute speeches followed, with leaders and dignitaries reflecting on Hon. Mirisim’s leadership, humility and lifelong commitment to rural development and national connectivity.

Speaking on behalf of Ok Tedi Mining Limited, Managing Director Kedi Ilimbit said it was important for the nation to honor leaders who had made lasting contributions to the country.

“When someone does something great, we must look after them,” Mr. Ilimbit said, referring to the legacy of the late Hon. Mirisim and his role in advancing major infrastructure projects in some of the country’s most challenging terrains.

Madang Governor Hon. Ramsey Pariwa used his address to defend the Government’s Connect PNG program, stating that its true beneficiaries are rural and remote communities.

“There are people in the city who criticize the Connect PNG program,” Governor Pariwa said.

“But for us in the villages and the most remote parts of Papua New Guinea, this program is for us.” He thanked the late Minister for Works and Highways for championing infrastructure development that brought access and opportunity to previously isolated areas.

The formal program concluded at around 6.00 pm, with organizers confirming that evening proceedings would commence at 8.00 pm.

Hon. Solan Mirisim is remembered as a strong advocate for rural infrastructure, inclusive development and national unity.

His final return to Telefomin has drawn leaders and communities together in reflection, as the nation prepares to honor his life and service in the days ahead.