PNG Prime Minister honours late Works Minister Solan Mirisim at Telefomin farewell

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has paid tribute to the late Works and Highways Minister and Telefomin MP Solan Mirisim, describing him as one of the district’s most dedicated and productive leaders since Independence.

 PNG Prime Minister honours late Works Minister Solan Mirisim at Telefomin farewell

Speaking at the funeral service in Telefomin, West Sepik Province, the Prime Minister said the district had a long history of producing outstanding leaders and public servants, and Hon. Mirisim stood proudly among the finest of his generation.

As mourners gathered to farewell the late minister, Mr Marape reflected on the loss not only to Telefomin but to the nation, saying the passing of Hon. Mirisim marked the end of a life devoted to quiet service and steady progress.

Drawing from scripture, the Prime Minister told the gathering that even in moments of grief, there was comfort in remembering a life lived with purpose. He acknowledged governors, ministers, leaders, public servants, police officers, and community members, and praised the Mirisim family and the people of Telefomin for the strength and dignity they displayed.

Mr Marape also shared his observations upon arriving in Telefomin, pointing to visible improvements in education infrastructure as evidence of leadership on the ground. He said proper classrooms and staff houses seen in the area were not built by chance, but through commitment to education in a remote setting.

He told the gathering that Hon. Mirisim worked consistently to ensure children in isolated communities received the same opportunities as those in areas connected by road, particularly through improvements to schools and public facilities.

The Prime Minister assured the family and the people of Telefomin that the values and vision Hon. Mirisim stood for would continue to guide national development, regardless of who held office.

“Hon. Solan Mirisim has left an indelible imprint on national public policy, particularly in infrastructure and connectivity,” Mr Marape said.