PNG Court Tells Enga Leaders to Explain Tribal Violence

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has described the late Morobe Governor Luther Wenge as a “pillar of democracy,” confirming he will be accorded full state recognition.

Marape said Wenge’s passing was a major loss not only for Morobe Province but for the entire country, noting his 18 years of service and his strong advocacy for greater provincial autonomy.

“Governor Wenge has been in leadership for 18 of the last 50 years in Morobe and our country. We will give him the respect he deserves,” Marape said. He announced that Parliament would host a lying-in-state program before Wenge’s body is flown to Lae on Friday.

The Prime Minister also praised Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso for ensuring close coordination between the government, Morobe leaders, and the Wenge family during the mourning period.

Wenge is remembered as a staunch defender of provincial rights, with Marape saying his legacy would continue to guide PNG’s political direction as it celebrated 50 years of independence.

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