State funeral held for the Late Joses Wawari Sanga

A State Funeral was held today for the Late Joses Sanga, 51, who passed away early Tuesday morning.

The state funeral Programme began today morning at 9am where the body of the late Minister was taken from his official residence at Kola Ridge to the National Parliament where it was laid in-state until 2pm.

A short procession then followed from the Parliament Building to the South Sea's Evangelical Church where the funeral service was held.

Many came to say their last goodbyes, the crowd that gathered reflected the respect Mr Sanga had. Dignitaries, families and friends gathered together, not only to say goodbye to a great leader, but also to reflect on his achievements and contributions to his people and the country.

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare described the late Sanga as a devoted Minister and a true friend and confidant. "He will be dearly missed by all who have had the privilege of knowing him"

The late Sanga started his service with the government in 1976 as a court clerk and worked his way right up to the position of Permanent Secretary in 1994.

Late Sanga served as Permanent secretary in various ministries before resigning from the public service in 2001 to join politics.

The late Sanga obtained a Masters Degree in Public Policy and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from various universities in Australia and New Zealand.

Meanwhile condolence messages, locally and abroad, have been sent to the family and relatives of the late Sanga.