01/06/2025
GOVERNOR LUTHER WENGE VISITS REMOTE SIASSI VILLAGE TO OPEN NEW CATHOLIC CHURCH
AUPWEL VILLAGE, WARD 4 – SIASSI LLG | 24 MAY 2025
Governor Wenge's Landmark Visit Strengthens Call for Siassi Electorate
Morobe Governor Luther Wenge has taken a significant step in his Going Rural mission, venturing into one of the Morobes’s most isolated regions—Aupwel Village, a small community on the outskirts of Siassi Island. Aupwel Village, located in Ward 4 of the Siassi Local-Level Government (LLG), is home to over 2,000 residents.
Anyone who has travelled to Siassi can attest to the fact that the waters between Finschhafen and Siassi are among the roughest seas—a challenge that Governor Wenge and his team faced during their journey. Despite the treacherous conditions, Governor Wenge persevered, demonstrating his commitment to reaching one of Morobe’s most isolated communities.
Accompanied by his officers and the Lae Water Police, Governor Wenge undertook a challenging four-hour sea journey to witness firsthand the hardships faced by the Siassi people. His visit was more than symbolic; it was a pivotal move in advocating for the creation of a dedicated electorate.
Siassi’s geographical isolation has long hindered access to essential government services, fuelling its push for political recognition. Governor Wenge believes that establishing a separate electorate would ensure direct representation and accelerate development, guaranteeing the delivery of crucial government support.
Siassi Island deserves its own voice in Parliament. Its isolation demands special attention, and the best way to achieve that is through a standalone electorate. Governor Wenge has seen the struggles first-hand and will present them to the national government, ensuring Siassi can finally take charge of its future," a statement emphasized.
Arriving on Saturday, May 24, Governor Wenge and his team were met with vibrant singsing performances as locals welcomed his presence. On Sunday, the local singsing group led the governor to the newly built Catholic Church, where he officially cut the ribbon, marking its grand opening—an uplifting milestone for the community. Following the ceremony, Governor Wenge and his team continued their journey, successfully circumnavigating the entire Siassi Island to visit remote coastal villages and assess development needs first-hand.
During their journey, Governor Wenge and his delegation made a stop at Bunsil Station to assess the progress of preparations for the upcoming ELCPNG Synod, scheduled for next year. From their observations, preparations are well underway, ensuring the station is ready to host the significant event. From there Governor Wenge and his team headed for Aronai where they rested for the night. Aronai is a small island village near Siassi’s mainland.
On Monday morning, Governor Wenge was led to the boat by the Aronai singsing group where he boarded the boat back to Lae. Aronai, home to fewer than 300 residents, offered a glimpse into the realities of island life. This is an aerial view of the Aronai Island.
Returning to Lae, Governor Wenge carried with him a renewed determination—to bring Siassi’s concerns to the national forefront and push for meaningful change.
Through his Going Rural initiative, Governor Wenge continues to turn promises into action, ensuring that every corner of Morobe, no matter how remote, receives the attention it deserves. For the people of Siassi, his visit was more than historic—it was a beacon of hope, a call for recognition, and a step toward a brighter future.