Manele announces death of high commissioner Anga in PNG

Solomon Islands’ High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea His Excellency Barnabas Anga has passed away this morning in Port Moresby, Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele has announced this evening.

In a news that shocked the nation, Manele in a public statement tonight said: “It is with great sadness that I inform you all of the passing away of our high commissioner to Papua New Guiean, His Excellency Mr. Barnabas Lauia Anga, this morning in Port Moresby. High Commissioner Anga collapsed at his official residence at 8am this morning in Port Moresby and was rushed to Aspen Medical Centre, which he was pronounced dead at 9am Port Moresby time (10am Honiara time).”

Manele on behalf of the government, acknowledges the services of the late Anga and the contributions he has made to the government and the people of Solomon Islands in promoting the country’s interests in PNG and elevating “our bilateral relationship there.”

The foreign minister continues: “I also wish to recognize the utmost dedication that the late high commissioner Anga has done for the country as a long time public servant, senior government official in the respective offices that he held prior to his posting to Papua New Guinea.”

“He has served with honour, distinction and has dedicated his life tirelessly for his country, Solomon Islands,” Manele said.

Anga was posted to PNG in 2014 as the high commissioner there. He previously served as Secretary to the Prime Minister and a permanent secretary in several ministries of the government. He was also a former school teacher.

He comes from Lau in Malaita.

News@SBMOnline2021