PNG Prime Minister Pays Tribute to Late Maprik MP Libert Kapris

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Maprik MP Libert Kapris, who passed away at Pacific International Hospital on Saturday, October 17, extending his condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Maprik in East Sepik Province.

Mr Marape said the late MP’s death was particularly painful because the district had already lost his father, former Maprik MP Gabriel Kapris, during the current parliamentary term. He called on leaders and the community to honour the younger Kapris by supporting his family and continuing the work he had undertaken for his electorate.

Libert Kapris entered Parliament after winning the Maprik Open By-Election in June 2024 under the People’s First Party. He succeeded his father, who died on August 13, 2023.

Late Maprik MP Libert Kapris/Photo supplied

The Prime Minister said the loss of both father and son within one parliamentary term was a heavy blow to their family and the people who had placed their trust in them through the ballot box.

“He came into Office following the passing of his father, who was also a Member of Parliament in this term. He won the By-Election and came into Office, and now, within this same term, he too has passed away. It is just a sad thing,” Mr Marape said.

He extended his sympathies to the immediate family, relatives, clan and wider Maprik community, as well as East Sepik Province. He also conveyed his condolences to Minister Richard Maru and the People’s First Party, which the late MP represented in Parliament.

“I offer my Condolences to his family, his tribe, his people, Maprik District, and of course Minister Maru and the Party that he was part of,” he said.

Mr Marape acknowledged that the death would be difficult for many to comprehend but urged the bereaved to draw comfort from their Christian faith.

“Some things in life we can never understand, but in faith as Christians, we acknowledge that God knows best,” he said.

He said the late MP’s legacy should be carried forward through practical support for his family and a continued commitment to the needs of Maprik District.

“The least we can do is recall and remember the one who has passed, and commit ourselves to uphold and complete the work that he started,” Mr Marape said.

“We honour his memory by doing good to his family and his people, and by pursuing his dreams.”

The Prime Minister said the Government remained committed to serving the people of Maprik and ensuring that the late MP’s family and constituents received support during their time of grief.

“That is a commitment we make,” he said.

“To the people of Maprik and the late Member’s immediate family, on behalf of the Government and Pangu Pati, I pass on my condolences and sympathies.”