Julius Chan 1939 – 2025

Biography

Born in the Tanga Islands and shaped by Papua New Guinea’s island communities, Julius Chan carved out a distinctive political career devoted to public service during one of the nation’s most crucial developmental periods. His rise through PNG politics reflected a rare ability to navigate the country’s complex landscape while remaining deeply rooted in his island heritage—a connection that defined his entire public life.

Chan’s decades in politics tackled the multifaceted challenges facing Papua New Guinea’s diverse communities, earning him recognition as a bridge between traditional island values and modern governance. His commitment to his constituents remained unwavering, making him a notable fixture in the nation’s political narrative during transformative years that shaped the country’s trajectory.

When Chan passed away on January 30, 2025, in New Ireland, Papua New Guinea lost a connecting thread to its recent political past. Those who worked alongside him remember a figure committed to his people and homeland—a legacy woven into the fabric of PNG’s political history.