Sir Julius Chan, Papua New Guinea’s last ‘founding father’, dies aged 85 Outpouring of grief after death of Chan, the son of a migrant Chinese father and Indigenous mother, who served as prime minister twice.
Papua New Guinea is mourning the death of Sir Julius Chan, affectionately known across the country as Sir J – the last “founding father” of the country and its second ever prime minister.
The office of the prime minister, James Marape, issued a statement expressing “profound sadness … His passing comes at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, as Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence – a milestone he played a crucial role in achieving.
As we reflect on our journey as a nation, we must also honour the legacy of great leaders like Sir Julius, whose vision, courage, and leadership helped shape the Papua New Guinea we know today.”.
The Chan family released a statement on Thursday afternoon announcing the death of Sir Julius at the age of 85.
