I THANK Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, a talented and instrumental leader who took this nation out of foreign hands without bloodshed.

There were few figures like him who shaped the future of PNG, politically, constitutionally, socially and economically.

So we thank the first PM, Sir Michael, the first Opposition leader, the late Sir Tei Abal, because these guys with their first political parties made a great impact in bringing independence in 1975.

Other great contributors are Sir Rabbie Namaliu, Sir Julius Chan, Fr John Momis, Sir John Kaputin, Anton Parao and Paul Torato.

Those who have left us are Sir Silas Atupate, Sir Yambake Okuk, Sir John Guise, Sir Albert Kipalan, Sir Buri Kidu, John Watts and Sir Sinake Giregire and several others.

With due respect, I must say that our nation now needs young leaders with new mindsets and visions who can take this nation forward for the next 34 years.

You cannot teach an old dog a new trick. We now need young and innovative leaders who are focused on issues like globalisation, economics and trade to take the country from here and move forward.

It’s shameful to see the National Alliance Cabinet making sweeping decisions when it comes to decision-making in parliament. The National Alliance party is making use of “fence-sitting parties” to bully the number games in parliament.

Bullying over what will be a hazard to the health of the country is nonsense. Our politicians need to be conscious of  the future of this nation. The country is for the people and whatever decision that is made must be in the best interests of the people.

I think PNG needs a new leadership for a new era. As a father and founder of PNG, Sir Michael must put the leadership on the floor of the parliament so that it may decide on a good leader. That is, if he is kind enough. He may do something that people do not expect.

Passing the leadership down the line would mean he is a caring father to the nation.