Imbongu prepares for historic flag ceremony

PNGDF and police personnel rehearsing for the flag raising tomorrow Thursday at Walume, Imbonggu District, SHP *(Supplied)*

Preparations are underway in Imbonggu District, Southern Highlands Province, for a historic ceremony to mark Papua New Guinea’s journey to independence and honour the country’s founding Prime Minister, the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare.

PNG Defence Force personnel were at Walume since Monday rehearsing for Thursday’s flag ceremony and the unveiling of a statue of Sir Michael Somare.

The ceremony will take place at the historic flagpole where the Australian flag was lowered and the Papua New Guinea national flag was raised for the first time in 1975.

The military rehearsals drew the attention of locals in Walume, with many stopping their daily activities to watch the preparations.

Prime Minister James Marape is expected to attend the ceremony, accompanied by the host MP for Imbonnggu and Minister for Justice and Attorney General, Pila Niningi.

Members of the Somare family, diplomatic representatives from Australia and New Zealand, Members of Parliament, and other invited guests are also expected to attend.

The unveiling of the statue will recognise Sir Michael Somare’s leadership and his role in guiding Papua New Guinea to independence on September 16, 1975.

PNG Defence Force personnel arrived in Imbonggu District Headquarter in Walume and are preparing for the event on Thursday 29th October 2026 where Prime Minister James Marape and host MP Pila Niningi and dignitaries are expected to attend *(Supplied)*

For Imbonggu, the event is an opportunity to recognise its place in the country’s history and bring national leaders, communities and international representatives together to reflect on the nation’s journey.

Final preparations are continuing ahead of Thursday’s ceremony, which is expected to draw national attention to Walume.