Papua New Guinea's parliament has nominated the former defence minister Bob Dadae to be the country's next Governor-General.
Papua New Guinea's parliament facade, after the removal of anthropomorphic carved heads from the front lintel. Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades
The term for the current Queen's representative, Sir Michael Ogio, is nearing an end.
The Prime Minister Peter O'Neill said Mr Dadae had provided honourable service to PNG as an MP and through his work in the community.
He praised the incumbent governor general saying he'd maintained the discipline and calm nature that was required of his position through often challenging times.
"The challenges before him were often immense, but he maintained a determined approach and respected the laws and Constitution of our nation," Mr O'Neill said.
"Even with health difficulties in recent years, Sir Michael Ogio continued to execute his duties professionally and with purpose."
"I congratulate the nominee for 10th Governor-General of Papua New Guinea and I look forward to working with him in the years to come."
The parliamentary opposition earlier offered to nominate Dame Carol Kidu for the role.
Former Governor-General Sir Michael Ogio Photo: Government House PNG
The former state minister declined saying the timing wasn't right.
Sir Michael, who took up the role in February 2011, was in a critical condition late last year following complications from heart surgery, but his condition has since stabilised.
PNG has had nine vice-regals since it gained independence in 1975, all of them men.
