In a moving and historical burial ceremony, the country’s founding father and the name synonymous with the country’s Independence- the late Great Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare was finally laid to rest at five minutes past four (4: 05) at his Kreer Heights Home in Wewak this afternoon.
This followed a funeral service and final tributes at the Sir Michael Somare Stadium in Wewak.
The casket was moved in a slow march to Wewak Hill led by the 2nd Regional Pacific Island Regiment of Moem Barracks.
The final catholic blessing ritual of the burial site was performed before the grand chief was laid to rest.
The burial this afternoon ends a 3-week national mourning period for the late Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare
Provincial Administrator, Doctor Clement Malau says a museum will also be built next to the burial site.
This morning, thousands of mourners braved the heat to attend the State Funeral service, which was led by the main celebrant, Cardinal Sir John Ribat at the Sir Michael Somare stadium.
NBC News-Lyanne Togiba
Note: The actual photos of the burial are not allowed at this time.
Photos: Bill Olmi DFAIT
Melanesia News 