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Michael SomarePrime Minister of Papua New Guinea
Date of Birth: 09.04.1936
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Content:
- Sir Michael Thomas Somare
- Political Beginnings
- Leader of the Opposition and Chief Minister
- First Term as Prime Minister
- Return to Power
- Honours and Awards
- Legacy
Sir Michael Thomas Somare
Early Life and EducationBorn in Rabaul and raised in the small village of Karau, Michael Somare received his early education at a Japanese school during World War II, where he learned Japanese literacy and numeracy. This experience would later shape his career as Prime Minister, with Somare actively pursuing a strong relationship with Japan.
Political Beginnings
From 1946 onward, Somare attended various schools due to his father's frequent relocations. His career began in radio broadcasting in Wewak, where he worked as a radio announcer. In 1965, he graduated from the Administrative College in Waigani.
Political tensions arose due to his commentary on government policies, leading him to transition from broadcasting into administrative roles. In 1967, he co-founded the Pangu Party and left the Public Service to contest the second House of Assembly elections in 1968.
Leader of the Opposition and Chief Minister
Somare became the first official Leader of the Opposition after the 1968 elections, leading the eight members of the Pangu Party who had entered Parliament. He declined coalition offers, solidifying his position as a vocal critic.
In 1972, Somare formed a coalition with Julius Chan's People's Progress Party for the third House of Assembly elections. When self-government was granted in 1973, he became Chief Minister and played a pivotal role in the struggle for independence and the drafting of the constitution.
First Term as Prime Minister
With Papua New Guinea's independence in 1975, Somare's title became Prime Minister. He held this position until 1980, when he was removed in a vote of no confidence.
Return to Power
Somare regained the Prime Ministership in 1982, serving until 1985. He was re-elected in 2002 and again in 2007.
Honours and Awards
Somare is a recipient of the Companion of the Logohu Order, the Order of St. Michael and St. George, the Order of the Companions of Honour, and the Order of Fiji. He is also a Knight of the Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George.
Legacy
Somare was a strong nationalist and advocate for peace. He believed in inviting enemies to the table before conflict. He maintained a deep connection to his country's culture and history, often wearing traditional attire instead of Western suits in official settings.
