Date Posted: August 19 2024

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Authorised by KALA AUFA – Clerk of Parliament

 

WED 07.08.2024 | TODAY, August 7 th , 2024, Papua New Guinea’s Parliament House reaches a significant milestone, as it marks its 40th anniversary since its official opening in 1984 by then HRH Prince of Wales, now HRM King Charles III. The iconic building, located in the capital city of Port Moresby, has been the cornerstone of democracy and political discourse in the country.

To commemorate this historic occasion, the Parliamentary Service has announced a celebratory event scheduled for August 29th, 2024. The event will bring together a diverse array of stakeholders, including government officials, dignitaries, school students and business partners, to reflect on the institution’s journey over the past four decades.

Clerk of the Parliament Kala Aufa paid tribute to the people’s house as a magnificent building designed to reflect the rich and diverse traditional culture of PNG, adding that the occasion reminds us to appreciate the valuable heritage of a thousand tribes that are now united together as one country, one nation and one people, under one roof.

Mr Aufa said the iconic building was truly a Parliament to be proud of and honoured the country’s visionary forefathers who pioneered an institution that fosters sovereignty of our nation.

“It is the home of the principles of democracy of PNG,” he said. “And the promotion and protection of democracy is central to the most important reason and work of parliaments.”

Throughout its 40-year journey, Parliament House has been a symbol of the nation’s commitment to democracy, diversity, and progress. It has been the venue for national debates, decision-making and law-making by Members of Parliament, providing a platform for the voices of all Papua New Guineans to be heard and represented.

The 40th anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s Parliament House serves as a reminder of the importance of civic engagement, democratic values, and national unity as the country looks towards building a brighter future for all Papua New Guineans.

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Pictured are long service staff (l-r) Yape Moses, Lalai Vali, Deborah Kanu, Kaia Lausi, Maling Opo, Manase Thahu and Leonard Patrick who have served in the Parliamentary Service for 40 years or more with the Clerk of Parliament Kala Aufa (left) and Deputy Clerk Chamber Basil Kambuliagen (right). The other officer is Moale Gege who is not in the photo. Photo by Parliamentary Media Service

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