As Papua New Guinea celebrates 51 years of Independence, United Labour Party (ULP) leader and MP for Wau- Waria, Sam Basil Jr has called on the nation to recognise the often-overlooked contribution of workers and the labour movement in shaping the country's political and economic development.

In an Independence message, Mr. Basil said the country's achievements over the past five decades were built on the hard work of ordinary Papua New Guineans, including workers in both the public and private sectors who continue to serve communities across the nation.

He said while Independence celebrations often focus on national milestones and political leaders, the contribution of workers who have paid taxes, supported families and communities, and helped build the economy should not be forgotten.

"Often we do not acknowledge the workers in the public sector, private sector and community development who work long hours to build our society and economy," Mr. Basil said.

He paid tribute to frontline and essential service workers who continue to serve the country even during public holidays, including members of the Defence Force, police, Correctional Services, health workers, firefighters, ambulance officers and employees at airports and seaports.

Mr. Basil also highlighted the significant role played by the labour movement in Papua New Guinea's journey to Independence, noting that union leaders were among those who became actively involved in the country's political development during the pre-Independence period.

He said labour leaders such as Oala Raura, Maori Kiki and Toni Ila were among those who worked alongside members of the Bully Beef Club in the formation of Pangu Pati, which later became one of the country's most influential political parties.

According to Mr. Basil, Morobe Province played a leading role in both the labour movement and political development of Pangu Pati, with figures such as Gaudi Mirau, Michael Kaninimba and Toni Ila contributing to the party's growth.

He also reflected on the historical influence of Bulolo and Wau, where workers from across Papua New Guinea were recruited under labour schemes to work in goldfields and plantations, helping shape the region's political landscape.

Mr. Basil paid tribute to his late father, former Deputy Prime Minister Sam Basil, for his role in reviving Pangu Pati after its decline following the 2012 National Election.

He said the late leader rebuilt and rebranded the party from 2015, increasing its parliamentary representation before later forming the United Labour Party following a split within Pangu Pati in 2019.

The ULP leader acknowledged the contributions of labour advocates including John Paska, Lekwa Gure and Clemence Kanau, who continue to support workers' rights and provide policy advice to the party.

However, he expressed concern about the declining influence of trade unions and labour organisations, saying there was a need to rebuild the union movement to ensure workers remain actively involved in the country's economic and social development.

"It is important to rebuild our union movement so workers' rights and engagement in the economy and society are protected," he said.

Mr. Basil also paid tribute to founding fathers with links to the labour movement, including Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, Sir John Guise, Mackenzie Daugi and Toni Ila, who served on the Constitutional Planning Committee and helped shape the nation's future.

He further acknowledged former Prime Ministers Sir Michael Somare, Sir Rabbie Namaliu and Prime Minister James Marape for their association with labour-based political movements.

Looking ahead to the 2027 National Election and the country's post-50th Independence agenda, Mr. Basil said the United Labour Party would continue to focus on rebuilding trust among workers and advocating for labour-related issues.

"We owe much of our Independence push and the building of our economy after Independence to the workers and labour movement," he said.

Mr. Basil urged Papua New Guineans celebrating Independence across the country's districts and provinces to take time to recognise teachers, health workers, retail employees, transport workers and others who continue to serve in remote communities, district headquarters, towns and cities.

He extended Independence anniversary wishes to ULP supporters, party members and workers throughout Papua New Guinea, thanking them for their contribution to nation-building over the past 50 years.