Condolence Statement on the Passing of the Late Hon. Raymond Masono
It is with great sadness that I formally announce the passing of Hon. Raymond Masono, the Member for the Atolls and the Minister for Health in the Autonomous Bougainville Government.
The late Hon. Raymond Masono lived a life that epitomized service; service to his people, service to Bougainville and service to God.
For much of his professional life he served Bougainville in the corridors of the Bougainville Public Service. He was one of the key personnel responsible for the restoration of government services into Bougainville at the height of the Bougainville Crisis in the 1990’s. This bold action was for the return of basic services and to initiate a sense of normalcy on Bougainville during those troubled times.
He served with distinction as the head of several government departments in the ABG and was eventually appointed as the Acting Head of the Bougainville Public Service.
Upon his entry into politics in 2015 he distinguished himself as a minister in several key portfolios including Vice President of the previous government.
I recognized the acquired leadership skill and quality that resonated from his quiet demeanor when I appointed Raymond to my cabinet. As the Minister for Health in my government he strove to reform our health services and he led the ABG Health Department to combat the current COVID-19 pandemic.
I would also like to announce that the Prime Minister Hon. James Marape and I have decided to defer the Joint Consultations and the Joint Supervisory Body in respect to the passing of the Late Hon. Raymond Masono.
I pay tribute to an exceptional Bougainville leader and a chief who's unwavering commitment to peace, development and service for Bougainville will remain his lasting legacy.
To the wife, children and family of the late Hon. Raymond Masono as well as the people of Atolls I share in your grief. His passing is a great loss for Bougainville. I pray that God will grant you peace in your time of bereavement.
May His Soul Rest in Eternal Peace.
Hon. Ishmael Toroama
President
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