PORT VILA, VANUATU (7 May 2023): It is with deep regret that we, the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat family formally announce the passing of our Manager, Corporate Services, John Perakana Palmer, from Maringe, Isabel Province in the Solomon Islands.

Mr Palmer, who served the Secretariat since 2015 passed away at the Vila Central Hospital on the morning of Saturday 6 May 2023. He had a vast regional experience after having served in the Solomon Islands Government, USP and the Pacific Community prior to joining the MSG Secretariat. He is survived by his wife and four children.

The Haus Krai is being held at the MSG Secretariat Nasara and will be open from 8am-5pm, starting Saturday 6 May for 5 days. Friends, family members and those that have come to know the late John Palmer, wishing to pay their respects, can attend at the specified times. A condolence book will be opened for those who may wish to convey their messages of sympathy and condolence which will be subsequently passed to the family.

Arrangements are being made to repatriate his body back to the Solomon Islands on Wednesday 10 May 2023.

We thank the Government and people of the Solomon Islands for Mr Palmer’s life of service which he led with honor and integrity.

So long, John. Rest in Eternal Peace.