Papua New Guinea: Authorities adjust timing of official events for former leader in Port Moresby through March 12 amid ongoing nationwide mourning period /update 2

Event

Authorities have announced adjustments to several official events as part of an ongoing mourning period for the country's founding prime minister Michael Somare. Official services are occurring at Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby 1800-2200 nightly through March 10. Authorities are permitting citizens from designated parts of the country to attend services on specific days and restricting entry to the stadium to maintain social distancing measures. However, there is no gathering limit outside the stadium.

Somare's body will lie in rest at Parliament House March 11, when the legislature will hold a special session. The government has also set March 11 for communities to gather at schools nationwide to honor the former leader. A state funeral will occur at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in the capital March 12. Authorities will transfer the former prime minister's body to Wewak, East Sepik Province, ahead of his burial in Kreer Heights March 14. Provincial authorities have not announced specific details of the burial service.

The government has declared March 12 as a public holiday; officials will reduce government services, and business disruptions are likely nationwide. Essential government and emergency functions, such as hospitals and public utilities, will continue to operate. Several rallies took place in various parts of the country during the March 1 public holiday, and additional gatherings are highly likely March 12 and on the day of Somare's burial.

Increased security is likely near events honoring Somare nationwide, including community events March 11. However, the tightest security measures will be in place during nightly services and the state funeral in Port Moresby and the burial site in Wewak; thousands of people are likely to attend these events. Authorities will also likely close roads for funeral processions and near mourning events in both cities, and localized transport disruptions will probably occur.

Advice

Confirm business appointments March 12. If operating in Port Moresby and Wewak, consider avoiding event venues if not attending. Allow additional time for transport during the state funeral and for burial services. Follow all instructions from security personnel.