History of Sir Julius Chan: A Legacy of Leadership and Vision

Sir Julius Chan, a towering figure in Papua New Guinea's politics, passed away on January 30, 2025, at the age of 85. Known as the "Last Man Standing," he was one of the last remaining founding members of Parliament from the Independence era. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief and appreciation from across the nation. 

 Early Life and Education 

Born on August 29, 1939, on the Tanga Islands in the Territory of New Guinea, Sir Julius was the fifth child of seven. His father, Chan Pak, was a trader from Taishan, China, and his mother, Miriam Tinkoris, was a native New Irelander. Sir Julius was educated at Marist College Ashgrove in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, where he honed his skills in English, Cantonese, Tok Pisin, and Sursurunga. 

We reviewed Sir J's Book, Playing The Game, in 2021 - just before the 2022 elections. A good read - click here for more.

Political Career 

Sir Julius entered politics in the late 1960s, representing the Namatanai district of New Ireland province in the pre-independence House of Assembly. He was re-elected multiple times and held various significant positions, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. 

His first term as Prime Minister began in 1980, following a successful vote of no confidence motion against his close friend and then-Prime Minister Michael Somare. 

Contributions and Controversies

Sir Julius's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by bold decisions that shaped Papua New Guinea's modern economy. He was instrumental in creating the kina and toea, the country's currency. However, his leadership was not without controversy. The most notable was the "Sandline Affair" in 1997, where he hired foreign mercenaries to end the Bougainville civil war, drawing international criticism. 

In addition to the Sandline Affair, Sir Julius Chan implemented significant reforms to the provincial government system in 1995. These reforms aimed to address the challenges of decentralization, which had led to corruption, nepotism, and poor administration at the provincial level. 

The reforms shifted authority to local levels of government, reducing the power of provincial governments. This move faced substantial resistance from provincial premiers, particularly from the New Guinea Islands, which saw themselves as distinct from the mainland. 

Legacy and Personal Life 

Despite the controversies, Sir Julius's legacy is one of resilience and vision. He played a crucial role in expanding Papua New Guinea's higher education system, overseeing the creation of four additional universities during his tenure as Prime Minister. His contributions to education and economic development have left an indelible mark on the nation. 

Sir Julius was married to Stella Chan, and they had four children: Vanessa, Byron, Mark, and Toea. His family and the people of Papua New Guinea continue to honour his memory and the lasting impact of his work. 

Remembering Sir Julius Chan

As Papua New Guinea mourns the loss of one of its most influential leaders, Sir Julius Chan's legacy will continue to inspire future generations. His dedication to his country and his unwavering commitment to progress have cemented his place in history as a true statesman and visionary.

• FOUNDING FATHERS OF PAPUA NEW GUINEA 

• Brief Biography of Sir Michael Somare - "Father of the Nation"

Education is New Ireland top priority - Sir Julius Chan

The Division of Education in New Ireland is ready to move forward after it had frank and open talks with the New Ireland Government and the Provincial Administration on Thursday. 

Governor Sir Julius Chan in an unusual “call out” to reprioritize Education as a pivotal sector invited the Provincial Education board to a round table talk at the New Ireland Legislative Assembly conference room. 

Present was 

• Chairlady Dr Kappa Malpo, 
• Acting Director Education Wesley Siangat, 
• Appointment officer Gerard Bekeman, 
• Acting Manager Standards Patrick Neman, 
• Senior Primary School Inspector George Choi, 
• District Education Co-ordinator Renson Warkurai, 
• Inspector Godfrey Lutham and 
• Chaiman Education of PEC Felix Katibum, 
• Provincial Administrator Lamiller Pawut, 
• CEO Finance Richard Andia and 
• Director Subsidy Iola Tamtu.

Image: New Ireland Media Unit/Facebook 2021

Recommended read: Sir Julius Chan Life in Politics - A Review of His Book ' Playing the Game

One of the key issues raised was on the standard of Education in the province and how to improve it. 

Findings included a lack of Qualified teachers teaching in all schools, a lack of School Inspectors to police standard and quality in schools, a lack of school infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of students, funding and constraints requiring improved management and financial trainings for school principles to maintain quality administration in their schools.

New Ireland Mean Rating Index (MRI)

Dr Malpo also touched on the need to improve the provinces Mean Rating Index (MRI) which is the performance average of students per school. 

“ We must aspire to give our best to each individual student if we are to see an improvement in our MRI’s. And the MRI’s have a correlation with the quality of teachers we have in our schools. 

We need qualified teachers and we must endeavour to get all teachers to Bachelor level,” said Dr Malpo.

Flexible Open Distant Education ( FODE)

The need for the introduction of more Flexible Open Distant Education ( FODE) into the province was also discussed. With the Educationists stating that just because a student does not do well through the normal education system does not mean that they are failures. 

Work on the setting up of the New Ireland University and Namatanai Technical college also continues.

Taking in the issues and suggestions by the Education team Governor Sir J relayed that while the New Ireland Government could not fix all the dilemma’s faced by the Education sector it could intervene in areas that are within the policy framework. 

He said his Government through the subsidy division has been actively allocating funds directly to schools and has separate funding specifically for the upskilling of teachers who wish to pursue higher degrees and encouraged them to utilize the program. 

For infrastructure development he made particular emphasis on the West Coast Kulube was picked to have a new high school built. He encouraged the Education Division to think new when it came to the construction of the school. 

Separate meetings will be conducted to discuss more on the rollout of Education infrastructure in the province.

Governor’s School of Excellence

The Governor’s School of Excellence located at the Our Lady of the Sacred Heart (OLSH) International School is another positive outcome of Government policy. 

With a number of students selected through the policy getting high grades last year. 

Sir J thanked the Education Division representatives for taking time to really take stock of the current status of Education in the province, outlining areas of weakness and offering constructive solutions to improve the sector.

“ We cannot solve all the problems but we must adjust our priorities.  We all have our good and bad sides, we just need to choose and create a balance to move forward,” said Sir J.

New Ireland Education Students Population

According to New Ireland Education, it operates 560 schools. With a school a population of over 59, 765 and 2,160 teachers. The Province has improved its effort to deliver quality education across all sectors of education.

In 2019 grade 10s and 12s placed New Ireland in the Top 5 amongst other secondary schools in the country. NIP overall mean average index was 10 behind Pom, East New Britain and East Sepik. 

In 2020 the Covid pandemic contributed to almost 2 months of out of class time for all students in schools. The lost times were catered for through rearranged timetabling and extra classes in most of the examinable grades ( 8,10,12). According to results for performance in examinations for grade 8, the cut-off mark was 75 out of 150. The highest score was 146/150. For Grade 10 the MRI was 77%. All high schools moved up by 1 point. Lihir Secondary school came 10th in the country.

Source: New Ireland Provincial Govt Media Unit

Vote of No Confidence PNG: 5 Possible Moves to Deter Successful Vote of Confidence for James Marape

The opposition pick for the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea's position in the coming Vote of No Confidence on the People's National Congress Party leader is a strategic move. The pick further solidifies the number at Laguna. 

Check out the analysis on the latest on VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE HERE

UPDATE: VoNC to take place on the 28th MAY - 21 DAYS after tabling of Motion of VoNC

Mr Bryan Krammar MP hinted in his Krammar Report that the selection would be done by a secret ballot. That means that Mr Marape was selected among one or two others. However, he can be described as a driving force behind the Motion of Vote of No Confidence against the present prime minister.

James Marape's Strengths

Mr Marape had been the finance minister - the moneyman - for 8 years under the PNC Party. Mr Marape was a close confidante of PM Peter O'Neill. 

He knows how the prime minister spends the country's money. He knows how, when and where he gets money since 2012. 

He also knows Peter O'Neill massive investments deals past and present. And, probably, he knows better the PNG and Papua LNG projects deals.

He cited 'trust issues' as the main reason for resigning. We may NOT know what the real causes of distrust are. In hindsight, the PNG/Hela LNG project benefits and the new Papua LNG project deals were seen to be the main 'push factors'. 

Make no mistake, Marape could just be the best man in this political manoeuvring!

Mr Marape is a young leader/MP among the likes of Mr Bryan Krammer, Garry Juffa and Alan Bird. He also has the admiration of the old MPs like Kerenga Kua, Sir Mekere, Dr Marat, et. al. 

What is wrong with Prime Minister Peter O'Neill?

Definitely, no sane minister will leave the comfort of their perks and privileges and move to form a new government. No governor will leave the PNC party if 'the grass is still greener'. 

Something is not right and it is serious. 

Apparently, the defecting PNC members mentioned 'trust and confidence' issues in the PM has deteriorated lately. Understandably, a government formed by a coalition partners makes up the National Executive Councils (NEC). And any economic, investment, social, development or political decision MUST be a compromise - a decision based on parties consensus.

Unfortunately, many defecting PNC MPs including its coalition partners saw an absence of leadership based on respect and mutual parties consensus. 

Motion of Vote of Confidence May 7th 2019

The key to a successful change of government is not the numbers. ( I beg to differ here). It's money (the root of all evil?)!

In fact, the number is the result of hidden deals, manoeuvring, phone calls and sweet talks. Expect the unexpected, right?

Young and mature leaders moving for the change in the prime minister are not used to sweet-talking. Many of them are straight talkers. At present, it seems only the forward-thinking MPs will change the government and we need 60 of them.

Unfortunately, two ministers moved in between camps namely Mr Douglas Tomuriesa Member for Kiriwina Goodenough and East New Britain Governor Nakikus Konga. Mr Tomuriesa openly rebuked the leadership of the PNC government but returned to their camp the next day.

Do not trust what comes out of every MP's mouth. Like a dog that eats its vomit, an MP walks right back on his words with the tails between his legs. 

We never know until the Motion of Vote of No Confidence is tabled in parliament and voted. There are 7 days from the time of Motion of VoNC when the real VoNC takes place. So, stay strong. (Update: the parliament privilege committee extended the voting session for 21 days - VoNC session on the 28th May 2019)

5 Possible Outcomes of VoNC 2019

Several moves can jeopardise the impending Vote of No Confidence against Prime Minister Peter O'Neill and his divisive PNC party. 

• Big promises and large sums of money at play

MPs jumping ships. Some MPs (not all) like to hear sweet promises and the smell of money. 

It could be hard for political yoyos to avoid such 'pull factors'. The only way is to pause and reflect on the last 8 years of each MPs experience. 

And, make the decision based on the reasoning rather than emotion.

• Dealy tactic on legal interpretation on VoNC 2019

This is highly likely in the event that the current government spots any irregularities in either the opposition's PM choice or the technical aspect of VoNC. PM will seek the legal interpretation of and validate technical aspects of the VoNC 2019 if there is any chance of delaying the event.

This tactic was used on many occasions in the past by the government. Unfortunately, it further throws decent on public opinion about government. 

• Speaker siding with the government 

The Speaker is with the government. His neutral stand in the event of a VoNC on PNC government is the key to tabling the Motion of VoNC successfully. 

Not entertaining motion or citing some minor technical issues can frustrate the opposition attempt on the VoNC. 

• Prime Minister Resigning 

The prime minister will not resign. He has the power strongly welded in his hand. In fact, if he resigns, his ability to control the MPs also diminishes. He will not resign.

•  Leverage the loses in opposing camps 

Gaining number is what matters between the 7th and 14th May 2019. Of all the MPs at work, there are Magnets, Dealers, Golden Oldies, Straight Shooters, Whisperers, Power Brokers and King Makers. This is how the 111 MPs can be classified.

• Magnets are the prime minister candidates seen by the people and MPs as potential leaders; 
• Dealers are also called the briefcase carriers who will do anything to open it; 
• Golden Oldies are dinosaurs of PNG politics; 
• Straight shooters are the young MPs who want a better future for PNG; 
• Whisperers are the shadowy politicians, especially the MPs who did not make their stance clear yet. 

The next two classes of MPs are a class of their own: 

• ↣Power Brokers are different from Dealers - Power Brokers leaders. They have great listening skills. When they speak, other MPs listen in return; and
• ↣King Makers are a combination of Magnets and Power Brokers. They are good listeners. Their actions are too selfless. 

On this note, you can classify your MP as a Magnet, Dealer, Golden Oldy, Straight Shooter, Whisperer, Power Broker and King Maker.

⏪A replay of the events leading up to PNG VoNC 2019

Tuesday 7th May 2019 (Motion of VoNC)

At the ring of the bell at 2 PM, the speaker enters the parliament and takes his seat. He'll acknowledge the motion for Vote of No Confidence. 

Parliament will extend for 1 week and resume on the 14th May for the actual VoNC to take place. (Update: the parliament privilege committee extended the voting session for 21 days - VoNC session to take place on the 28th May 2019)

Monday 6th May 2019

- Laguna Camp named Hon. James Marape as Alternative PM

- Nine former Pangu Pati members, led by Bulolo MP, Sam Basil have joined the Melanesian Alliance Party.

- Hon. Douglas Tomuriesa Member for Kiriwina Goodenough returns to Crown after spending time at Laguna.

- East New Britain Governor Nakikus Konga rejoins his party in the PNC led coalition despite turning up at Laguna camp this morning.

- Enga Governor, Peter Ipatas, joins Laguna camp

- Parliament Speaker Hon. Job Pomat just arrived in Crown Plaza camp.

Sunday 5th May 2019

- All 5 Sandaun Province MPs including the Governor, Tony Wouwou, are now at the Laguna camp. They are Belden Namah (Vanimo-Green), Joe Sungi (Nuku), Patrick Pruaitch (Aitape-Lumi) Solan Mirisim (Telefomin).

Saturday 4th May 2019 

- Deputy Prime Minister Charles Abel in the company of a lone Milne Bay governor (and after 5 hours delay) announced his continued support for Peter O’Neill

- Laguna camp announced 57 MPs in camp and planned to review all agreements concluded recently by the O'Neill-Abel Government.

Friday, 3rd May 2019

- Douglas Tomuriesa, Member for Kiriwina-Goodenough, urges more Papuan MPs to join their cause.

- Member for Telefomin, Solan Mirisim, pushing for young leaders to make a stand.

- Dr Puka Temu, Member for Abau Open, joins the growing list of MPs dissatisfied with the Prime Minister. Sir Puka Temu said they have made a decision to move because of internal disagreements over how the country is being managed.

- All 15 Pangu MPs have resigned. 7 MPs have joined the 'Laguna' camp which now claims to have 51 members in total. It is unclear, what the Basil-led faction is planning to do at this stage. 

Thursday 2nd May 2019

- The People's National Congress says the party has resolved "to back" Peter O'Neill as Prime Minister in the coming vote of no confidence. The party posted photos on its Facebook page claiming 38 members are intact. The caucus meeting initially planned for 6 May was moved to 1 May to counter moves by the opposition and defecting MPs. 

More updates to come. 

Monday 29th April 2019

- Tari Pori MP, James Marape, has announced that he is officially leaving the People’s National Congress citing a lack of confidence in PNC party leader and PM O'Neill

- Manus Governor, Charlie Benjamin and Okapa MP, Saki Soloma have also announced their formal exit from The People's National Congress Party.

Sunday 28th April 2019

- Prime Minister, Peter O'Neill, has arrived back in the country from China

Friday 26th April 2019 

- Governors Sir Peter Ipatas (ENGA), William Powi (SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS) and Phillip Undialu (HELA) resign from PNC

1997 Sandline Affair: Resignation of Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea Sir Julius Chan

One event in PNG’s short history will always reverberate for generations – the 1997 Sandline Affair. Sandline Affair was a political crisis that threatened PNG’s internal diplomacy when the 32-month-old government of Sir Julius Chan attempted to solve the Bougainville Crisis once and for all.

Recommended read: Sir Julius Chan Life in Politics - A Review of His Book ' Playing the Game

Sir J wanted to put an end to Bougainville crisis by hiring foreign mercenaries. His choice of action was external military intervention AFTER his call for help from Aust and  NZ fell on deaf ears.

US$36 Million and cutbacks

What is startling is the amount of money that the govt of Sir Julius Chan was cutting back from vitals areas like Education and Health. Sir J's govt cut US$36 million from departmental allocation to govt institutions like Education, Health, ….) to fund mercenaries. See the copy of the Agreement here.

Fees and payment agreement 30/01/1997

US$36  was over K85 million at the current exchange rate. Though political situation then and now are different, money – a huge amount of money in part or thereabout – exchanged hands. Some of them were for personal gains.

Sir J prime minister for 32 months

The year was 1997. Sir Julius Chan was prime minister for almost 32 months. Bougainville crisis was in its 9th year. Here are the last 12 days of Sir J in power as the prime minister.

1. 16th March: Beginning of Operation Rausim Kwik. On the night of 16 March 1997, the revolt began. By the time the night was over, the entire band of Sandline mercenaries had been disarmed and arrested. Prime Minister Chan did not find out until the next morning.

2. 17th March: PNG Defence Force Commander, Brig. Gen. Jerry Singirok demanded Sir Julius Chan (PM), Chris Haiveta (DPM) and Mathias Ijape (Defence minister) to resign within 48 hours (2 days); The prime minister Sir Julius Chan reacted by sacking BG J. Singirok, replacing him with CONTROVERSIAL Colonel Alfred Aikung.

3. 18th March: A boycott of classes began at the University of Papua New Guinea, in support of Singirok. Crowds of civilians blocked the roads around the barracks, and bomb hoaxes closed down government departments.

4. 19th March: 48th-hour ultimatum expired, the protests turned violent, and some looting began. The situation grew darker for Chan when the Governor-General, Sir Wiwa Korowi, took out a newspaper advertisement that also accused the government of widespread corruption.

5. 20th March: The Australian government sent emissaries to Port Moresby, and threatened to withdraw financial aid altogether if the Sandline deal was not cancelled.

6. 21st March: All Sandline's personnel, with the exception of Tim Spicer, who remained to give evidence to the enquiry, were withdrawn.

7. 22nd March:  Civil strike continued, UPNG students met at forum square every day; Speaker of Parliament and former Prime Minister Sir Rabbie Namaliu met with Chan and Singirok, and advised the latter (JS) that two of his demands had been met and that Chan would resign only at the wish of Parliament.

8. 23rd March: Major Walter Enuma, a key Singirok supporter, said: "We would like to see this thing off the streets and back into the political arena."

9. 24th March: Chan’s grip on power was fast eroding; 5 NEC ministers resigned, Sir Wiwa Korowi (GG) and Church leaders reiterated calls for Chan to step aside pertaining to CoI into Sandline Crises.

10. 25th March: March Parliament session began, Bill Skate was ready to bring forth a motion calling on Chan to RESIGN. Sir Michael Somare amended Skate's motion, so it only called upon Chan to STEP DOWN for the period of the inquiry.

11. March 26th: Demonstrators celebrated the news that Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan had just "stepped aside."

12. 27th March: Chan realised that his position was hopeless.  John Giheno appointed acting PM.

Victory or failure

The success of Operation Rausim Kwik was considered a victory for every Papua New Guinean by many observers and citizens. But, Sir J and his govt thought it was the right thing to do at that time to quell the Bougainville Crises before the 1997 national general elections.

>>Sir Julius Chan Life in Politics - A Review of His Book ' Playing the Game'

12 Days to Sir Julius Chan Resignation - 1997 Sandline Crises

The year was 1997. Sir Julius Chan was prime minister for almost 32 months. Bougainville crisis was in its 9th year. His Story – Sir J’s 12 days to his resignation as the PM of Papua New Guinea.

Recommended read: Sir Julius Chan Life in Politics - A Review of His Book ' Playing the Game

1. 16th March: Beginning of Operation Rausim Kwik. On the night of 16 March 1997, the revolt began. By the time the night was over, the entire band of Sandline mercenaries had been disarmed and arrested. Prime Minister Chan did not find out until the next morning.

2. 17th March: PNG Defence Force Commander, Brig. Gen. Jerry Singirok demanded Sir Julius Chan (PM), Chris Haiveta (DPM) and Mathias Ijape (Defence minister) resigned within 48 hours (2 days); The prime minister Sir Julius Chan reacted by sacking BG J. Singirok, replacing him with CONTROVERSIAL Colonel Alfred Aikung.

3. 18th March: A boycott of classes began at the University of Papua New Guinea, in support of Singirok. Crowds of civilians blocked the roads around the barracks, and bomb hoaxes closed down government departments.

4. 19th March: 48th hour ultimatum expired, the protests turned violent, and some looting began. The situation grew darker for Chan when the Governor-General, Sir Wiwa Korowi, took out a newspaper advertisement that also accused the government of widespread corruption.

5. 20th March: The Australian government sent emissaries to Port Moresby, and threatened to withdraw financial aid altogether if the Sandline deal was not cancelled.

6. 21st March: All Sandline's personnel, with the exception of Tim Spicer, who remained to give evidence to the inquiry, were withdrawn.

7. 22nd March:  Civil strike continued, UPNG students met at forum square every day; Speaker of Parliament and former Prime Minister Sir Rabbie Namaliu met with Chan and Singirok, and advised the latter (JS) that two of his demands had been met, and that Chan would resign only at the wish of Parliament.

8. 23rd March: Major Walter Enuma, a key Singirok supporter, said "We would like to see this thing off the streets and back into the political arena."

9. 24th March: Chan’s grip on power was fast eroding; 5 NEC ministers resigned, Sir Wiwa Korowi (GG) and Church leaders reiterated call for Chan to step aside pertaining to CoI into Sandline Crises.

10. 25th March: March Parliament session began, Bill Skate was ready to bring forth a motion calling on Chan to RESIGN. Sir Michael Somare amended Skate's motion, so it only called upon Chan to STEP DOWN for the period of the inquiry.

11. March 26th: Demonstrators celebrated the news that Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan had just "stepped aside."

12. 27th March: Chan realised that his position was hopeless.  John Giheno appointed acting PM.

The success of Operation Rausim Kwik was a victory for every Papua New Guinean from Buin to Bewani and Manam to Yalibu.