HON. Michael Somare MP, 1975

First Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea

Michael Somare was Chief Minister from 1972, and led the country to self-government up to the point Independence was proclaimed. He became the Prime Minister of a brand new nation, which was to be known as the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, and addressed the nation in a radio broadcast shortly before midnight.

My people of Papua New Guinea, the big day we have looked forward to for so long—our Independence Day—has arrived. Today is the 16th of September 1975—the day of Independence for Papua New Guinea. We have talked about this day, we have planned for it, worked for it and looked forward to it.

Today, our young nation takes possession of the prize which marks our people’s determination and hard work. This country and its people now enter Independence and sovereignty, and as from now, we will be counted among the family of nations. I think we are more fortunate than many other countries.

We have been lucky because we have reached full nationhood without the fighting and bloodshed that has been experienced by many former colonies.

PNG’s first Prime Minister, Michael Somare, and first Governor-General, Sir John Guise, at the Independence Day Ceremony in Port Moresby

But even so, our achievement of Independence still represents years of planning, overcoming opposition, debates, and hard work on the part of everyone who has contributed to the birth of our new nation.

I know that every man, woman and child of our nation shares this moment of pride and happiness with one heart, to join in celebrating our Independence.

At this point, I wish to remind all of us too that this is just the beginning. Now we must stand on our own two feet and work harder than ever before. Our land and our history has plenty to offer our people in this effort. Our rich cultures have always provided us with our sense of values, and will continue to do so.

As a united people we will achieve our goals with the stability of our background to support us, and the richness of the earth to provide for us. Many who have helped to build this nation are no longer with us. Their efforts and services must be remembered at this time.

Our leaders hold the responsibility for the future of our country and its governments. The people’s welfare, freedom and peace will be the primary concern of our politicians.

In conclusion, I would like to say again that the achievement of Independence is our national pride. We do not owe this Independence to the Government of Papua New Guinea, nor to the Government of Australia, nor even to the United Nations that has watched over our progress during the past years.

We owe our Independence to the men and women in the villages who helped build roads to link our diverse people together. We owe it to others who have counselled wisely on village, district and government committees, and to our fathers and mothers who have had the vision to work in some small way towards our freedom.

We are indebted to wise elders of our own clans, and those from other lands who saw unity and peace as the long-term aim of their work.

We should work together after Independence in the same spirit as those men and women toiled to achieve our Independence.

Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, Prime Minister James Marape and former Prime Ministers leaving Parliament after paying their respects at the funeral of Sir Mekere Morauta

Hon. James Marape MP, 2025

Ninth Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea

James Marape has served as the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea since May 2019, and has been a member of the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea since July 2007, and won the 2022 elections under the banner of the Pangu Party.

My Fellow Papua New Guineans, we gather at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. As we stand on the threshold of our 50th Independence Anniversary, we are reminded of the remarkable journey that has brought us to where we are today.

We celebrate our independence, won on 16 September 1975, after years of struggle and determination. We honour the sacrifices of our founding fathers and mothers, who fought tirelessly for our nation’s sovereignty.

As we reflect on our past, we acknowledge the wisdom of our ancestors, the resilience of our communities, and the determination of each generation to build a better future. Our Constitution, crafted by the Constitutional Planning Committee, has been our guiding light, upholding the principles of democracy, human rights, and self-determination. However, as we celebrate, we are also met with sadness.

It has been my most unpleasant tasks, that, during the tenure of my position as the Prime Minister, I have had to preside over the passing of Sir Michael Somare, Sir Mekere Morauta, Sir Rabbie Namaliu, and now Sir Julius—our first lot of prime ministers. It is clear that our nation is transitioning into another phase of our journey as an independent country. This also means the responsibility upon the shoulders of present leadership both in Government and Public Service will now be greater felt by all.

As we move forward, let this 50th anniversary remind us that our nation’s strength has always come from its people—from the wisdom of our ancestors, the resilience of our communities, and the determination of each generation to build a better future.

Let us celebrate our rich cultural heritage—not as separate tribes, but as a united nation proud of its traditions, its democracy, and its vision for the future. Let us embrace reconciliation, not just in words but in action, ensuring that no Papua New Guinean is left behind. And let us be inspired—not just for today, but for the next 50 years—to build a nation of peace, prosperity, and unity.

Together, let us move forward.

Together, let us celebrate our history and inspire our future.