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Condolence Message on the Passing of the Late Hon. William Samb, National MP for Goilala

The peace on Bougainville is the legacy of the leaders of Bougainville and Papua New Guinea from the past and present; many are still alive and many more have been called by their maker. 


As President of Bougainville I join the Prime Minister Hon. James Marape and the National Government to mourn the loss of the Minister Commerce and Trade and the Member for Goilala, the Late Hon. William Samb, MP.


The Late Hon. William Samb will be fondly remembered by the Government and people of Bougainville as a man of the people who was principled, committed to peace and ensuring the people of Bougainville realized their political aspirations through a democratic process.


I make special mention of the Late Hon. William Samb's contribution to the Bougainville Referendum in 2019 during his brief tenure as the Minister for Bougainville Affairs.


He played a significant role in repairing relations between the Autonomous Bougainville Government and the National Government on the lead up to the Referendum. His calm demeanor and respect for the people of Bougainville allowed him to enable the smooth implementation of the Referendum in 2019 as the Minister for Bougainville Affairs. 


During the last Joint Post Referendum Consultations last year he also contributed meaningfully to the negotiations.


On behalf of the Government and people of Bougainville I offer our deepest sympathies to family of the Late Hon. William Samb and the people of Goilala on his untimely passing. His contribution to Bougainville has earned the love and the respect of my people.


May His Soul Rest in Eternal Peace in the arms of God our Father. Amen.


Hon. Ishmael Toroama, MHR

President

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