A BEDROCK OF PNG HAS FALLEN – SIR JULIUS CHAN
By: As Papua New Guinea lays to rest the country’s two-time Prime Minister and a founding father, the late Sir Julius Chan, a solemn chapter of history closes. The name ‘PNG’ is inseparable from the likes of Sir Julius, Sir Michael Somare, and their pioneering peers—leaders who guided the country’s independence. I had the privilege of meeting Sir Julius Chan in 2016 during my PhD research. I wrote to his office requesting an interview for my thesis, which explored the work of the 1972-74 Constitutional Planning Committee (CPC), the architects of PNG’s independence Constitution. As a key player in the CPC and a central figure in the independence debates, Sir Julius graciously agreed to speak with me. He invited me to his parliamentary chamber—the first time I had ever set foot in an MP’s office. But this was no ordinary MP. I was sitting across from one of the founding fathers of our nation. Our candid two-hour conversation provided invaluable insights, but what struck me most was his humility and patience. He listened intently, shared deeply, and, at the end of our discussion, arranged for his car to drop me off. At the time, I was a young and uncertain scholar, navigating both my research and the broader path of life. Meeting Sir Julius Chan, hearing his reflections on PNG’s journey, and feeling his unwavering belief in the nation ignited a new sense of determination in me. He inspired me to push through and complete my thesis, and to dream bigger for the future. Of course, Sir Julius’ political career was not without its challenges—no great leader’s ever is. The Sandline crisis, the floating kina, and other moments of turbulence are woven into our nation’s evolving history. But as with all those who dare to lead, his legacy is measured not by moments of controversy but by the breadth of his enduring service. His contributions laid the foundations for PNG’s development, and his commitment to the country remained steadfast. Sir Julius’ life also serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions of migrants to PNG. In Melanesian paternal culture, lineage is traditionally traced through the father, and by that measure, Sir Julius—born to a Chinese father—could have been seen as an outsider. Yet, he devoted his life to PNG, serving with unwavering dedication. As our region grapples with shifting geopolitical currents, his legacy reminds us that PNG’s past, present, and future are shaped by the diversity of those who call it home. As the sun sets on Sir Julius Chan’s chapter, a new one opens in this 50th anniversary of Independence—challenging us all to carry the torch forward, to take ownership of the country’s future, and to build a PNG worthy of the dreams of the founding fathers. Rest in peace, Sir Julius Chan.Other Related Posts
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