Independence poetry by Elizah Duna

Forty five

Forty five years
of Independence,
not as colony.
We are free from colonial rulers.

Forty five years
of unity,
not division.
We are free from colonial rulers.

Forty five years
of freedom,
not captivity.
We are free from colonial rulers.

Forty five years
of justice,
not injustice.
We are free from colonial rulers.

Forty five years
we are marching forward.
Not stagnant,
because it’s our time.

Forty five years
we are flying our flag higher.
Never to be lowered,
because it’s our time.

Forty five years
we are walking in dignity.
Not in informality
because it’s our time.

Forty five years
we are standing in unity.
Never will we be divided,
because it’s our time.

Elizah is attending Pre Service 3 for a Bachelor of Education at the University of Goroka. He writes, “Last year UOG hosted poem competition which all students took part. The poem criteria was all about PNG’s Independence.
As a student growing up, I always think of writing traditional short stories as well a poems. Therefore, when the competition was up, I saw it as an opportunity to showcase what I have. That’s why I made a trial by writing this poem. To my surprise, I won the first placing in the competition. 
Winning competition at the University level is another for of joy I felt right in my bones. I am hoping that this year would have another competition so that I can write again.