Late Morobe Governor Luther Wenge to Lie in State at Parliament

National Parliament to Host Lying in State for Late Governor Wenge

The National Parliament of Papua New Guinea is set to host the lying in state for the late Governor of Morobe Province, Luther Akisawa Wenge. The ceremony will take place in the Grand Hall of Parliament, allowing national leaders and the public to pay their respects before his final interment in Morobe Province.

Governor Wenge passed away on September 13, 2025, at Port Moresby General Hospital. His death, at the age of 65 or 66, followed complications from emergency surgery to address internal bleeding, which was exacerbated by a pre-existing diabetic condition.

A Distinguished Career in Law and Politics

Before his impactful political career, Luther Akisawa Wenge established himself as a lawyer and magistrate. He first entered the National Parliament in the 1997 election, serving as Governor of Morobe Province under the Pipol First Party until 2012. After a decade-long hiatus, he successfully reclaimed his seat in the 2022 National Elections, this time representing the People's Labour Party.

Wenge was widely recognized for his 'firebrand' leadership and 'outspoken' nature, consistently advocating for the interests of his constituents and the nation. His political journey was marked by a steadfast commitment to justice and development, earning him respect across the political spectrum.

Legacy of Advocacy and Provincial Empowerment

Throughout his tenure, Governor Wenge championed several key initiatives and legal battles that significantly shaped provincial governance and development in Papua New Guinea. His notable achievements include:

• Successfully taking the national government to court to ensure that 40 percent of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) was retained by provincial governments.
• Challenging the national government in court to abolish the Enhanced Cooperation Program between the Australian Federal Police and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.
• Playing an instrumental role in the creation of Jiwaka and Hela as separate provinces.
• Publicly supporting Bougainville's independence.
• Initiating the cement road project in Lae city.
• Advocating for improved benefits for landowners and Morobeans in the Wafi-Golpu Mine.
• Championing education through the Gerson-Solulu Scholarship Scheme, aimed at empowering young Morobeans.

These efforts underscore his dedication to strengthening provincial autonomy and ensuring equitable resource distribution for his people.

National Tributes and Mourning

Following his passing, leaders across Papua New Guinea expressed profound sorrow. Prime Minister James Marape described the late Governor as a 'firebrand leader' who was 'widely loved in Morobe, especially in the rural areas.' Marape further stated that Wenge was 'always vocal, participating in all areas of parliamentary business with reason, conviction and deep concern for his people.'

Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso also paid tribute, calling Wenge's death a 'tragic loss and shock for the people of Morobe and Papua New Guinea' just days before the country's 50th Independence celebrations. Rosso highlighted Wenge's 'unwavering commitment to justice, development, and the wellbeing of the province,' affirming that his legacy as a 'true Morobean son' will endure.

The lying in state at the National Parliament will serve as a poignant moment for the nation to collectively mourn and honor a leader who dedicated his life to public service and the advancement of his province and country.