Marape mourns passing of Telefomin MP and Works Minister Solan Mirisim

Prime Minister James Marape has conveyed his deep sorrow over the death of Telefomin MP and Minister for Works and Highways, Solan Mirisim, who passed away early this morning.

Mr Marape said he was informed of the minister’s condition twice, at 12:30am and 1:30am, before he went to the Pacific International Hospital. He was there when doctors formally confirmed the minister’s passing.

“It was a painful moment. I stood beside a colleague and brother who had just left us,” the Prime Minister said. He later accompanied the family as arrangements were made to move the body to the funeral home.

Mr Marape has directed doctors to conduct a full coronial assessment and post-mortem to determine the cause of death.

He described the late Minister Mirisim as a hardworking and committed leader who always fought for the people of Telefomin. He said Mr Mirisim worked tirelessly for roads and services, including the Kiunga–Telefomin road and other major projects.

“He was a young leader with much more to give. His passing is a great loss to Telefomin, West Sepik, and Papua New Guinea,” Mr Marape said.

The Prime Minister also shared his personal connection with Telefomin, saying he spent his early school years there and has always felt close to the people of the district.

Parliament will meet briefly today to honour the late minister’s service. After the condolence statements, the House will pass the Budget before rising to allow full attention to be given to the funeral process.

Mr Marape extended his condolences to the Mirisim family, the people of Telefomin, and all who knew and supported the late minister.

“Papua New Guinea has lost a dedicated servant of the people. We mourn together,” he said.