Late Somare’s first State vehicle

A historic treasure stored away from the public eye is the Daimler Sovereign Saloon, that carried late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare after Independence in 1975 to 1980.

The first state vehicle is housed at the PNG National Museum and Art Gallery. It’s not on prominent display, but preserved behind the scenes in what appears to be a somewhat overlooked setting.

It stands as a living relic of independence, reminding Papua New Guineans of the journey from colonial rule to self-governance.

The vehicle remains a powerful emblem of PNG’s history and leadership legacy.

Sir Michael served as Prime Minister across three consecutive terms 1975- 1980 ,1982- 1985 and 2002-2011. He was ousted via a no-confidence vote in 1980 and replaced by Sir Julie's Chan and again removed throughout parliamentary no confidence in 1985, succeeded by Pais Winti.