Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has described the late Morobe Governor Hon. Luther Wenge as a “great statesman of Papua New Guinea,” saying his life of service in law, justice, and politics will inspire future generations.
Speaking at the handover of Governor Wenge’s body in Lae on Friday, Prime Minister Marape said Wenge’s deep commitment to the people, both as a legislator and public servant, stood as a shining example for the country.
“His contribution to Papua New Guinea, whether in the law and justice sector or in political life, stands tall,” PM Marape said. “If the people’s love for a leader does not motivate us to do the right thing for our country, then we are in the wrong place doing the wrong thing for Papua New Guinea.”
The Prime Minister thanked the people of Morobe for their support, saying their confidence gave him hope. He also highlighted four major initiatives that Governor Wenge strongly advocated for in partnership with the National Government:
1. Hidden Valley Mine – Renewal of the mining lease to sustain operations and benefits, which Wenge fought to secure.
2. Wafi-Golpu Project – Progress on a new and fairer benefit-sharing agreement expected to deliver substantial revenues to the State, Morobe, and landowners.
3. Nadzab Redevelopment – Relocation of Tutumang and the development of Nadzab as a provincial hub and gateway city.
4. Lae and Morobe Growth – Positioning Lae and Morobe as a major provincial headquarters under the “Nadzab City” vision, driving both regional and national development.
“These are the things we worked on together with Governor Wenge, my Cabinet, and the relevant ministers,” PM Marape said. “Morobe’s progress is Papua New Guinea’s progress. Governor Wenge belongs to that generation of leaders whose legacy of service shaped our nation.”
The Prime Minister assured the people of Morobe that his government would honour and complete the projects Wenge had championed.
“Morobe has contributed great leaders to our country, and one of them lies before us today,” PM Marape said. “His memory must inspire us to serve with integrity and purpose for the betterment of Papua New Guinea.”
He concluded by extending his condolences to the family, people, and tribe of Morobe.
“May God bless the family, the tribe, and the people of Morobe. The passing of your leader reminds us all to do better for Morobe and for Papua New Guinea,” PM Marape said.