Bird calls for courage and integrity as PNG enters new chapter

East Sepik Governor Allan Bird has urged Papua New Guineans to embrace courage, integrity, and hard work as the nation charts its course for the next 50 years.

Speaking during East Sepik’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations in Wewak yesterday, governor Bird reminded citizens of PNG’s peaceful transition to independence on September 16, 1975, which was achieved through determination, diplomacy, and vision rather than bloodshed.

“We have come a long way,” he said. “But we still have a lot more to do. We must not be afraid to do the right thing.”

Governor Bird called on the current generation to honour the legacy of the nation’s founding fathers by making bold and principled decisions to advance the country.

His message was echoed by Wewak MP Stanley Samban, who urged young Papua New Guineans to take pride in their role as the next torchbearers of nation-building.