Chief Secretary to Government, Ivan Pomaleu, OBE has officially honored the life and distinguished career of the late Ms. Gracelyn Mearu, a pivotal figure in the  Bougainville  peace  process  and  a dedicated  public  servant,  during  a memorial service held at Don Bosco Catholic Church in Port Moresby.

Ms. Mearu, who most recently served as the Director of the Joint Post- Referendum Secretariat (JPRS) and Deputy Director (Legal) for the National Coordination Office for Bougainville Affairs (NCOBA), passed away on 14 July 2026.

In a tribute delivered on behalf of the National Government, the Chief Secretary highlighted Ms. Mearu’s twelve years of unwavering service.

Since joining the NCOBA in 2014 as a Legal Coordinator, her career was marked by a steady rise through the ranks, reflecting the deep confidence placed in her by government leadership.

“Today, we mourn the loss of more than just a colleague. We mourn the loss of experience, wisdom, and institutional memory,” the Chief Secretary said.

“Ms. Mearu was a trusted adviser and a custodian of knowledge who contributed significantly to the implementation of the Bougainville Peace Agreement—one of the most important milestones in our nation’s history.”

The Government recognized Ms. Mearu, as an instrumental force in advancing peace, constitutional governance, and national unity.

Her work was characterized by a  quiet diligence that strengthened the vital partnership between the National Government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG).

The Chief Secretary extended deepest sympathies to Ms. Mearu’s husband, Mr. Bob Lowi, their four children; Wellington, Blanche, Lynn, and Christopher and the extended Mearu and Lowi families.

“Grace  reminds  us  that  true  leadership  is  measured  not  by  position  or recognition, but by integrity, dedication, and service to others.”

“She fought the good fight, finished her race with honor, and served her country faithfully.”

The Government of Papua New Guinea remains committed to upholding the legacy of peace and cooperation to which Ms. Mearu devoted her professional life.