STATEMENT: Secretary General, Baron Divavesi Waqa, on the Marshall Islands’ Nitijela (parliament) Fire and Passing of Former President Christopher Loeak
Statements
28 August 2025
Pacific Islands Forum Secretary-General Baron Divavesi Waqa has expressed sadness at the loss of the Marshall Islands’ Nitijela (parliament) to a fire in the early hours of Monday 25 August 2025. It resulted in the destruction of the parliament’s chamber and offices as well as the library and archives; all were lost in the blaze.
Secretary-General Waqa lamented the loss and the long-term impact of the fire on the country and its population, saying, “The loss of the Marshall Islands’ parliament, which included its chamber, offices, the library and their archives, is a loss for the people of the Marshall Islands.”
He added, “The fire has destroyed the many years of service and work that the parliament and its leaders have done for their people.”
While the scale of the destruction from the blaze continues to be assessed, Secretary-General Waqa assured the Government of the Marshall Islands that the Forum family stands ready to support her people.
Secretary General Waqa also expressed his deepest condolences on the passing of Christopher Jorebon Loeak, former president of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and an Iroojlaplap (paramount chief).
The Secretary General pays tribute to his years of dedicated service and leadership to the Marshall Islands as well as the Pacific region including as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum from 2013 – 2014.
“Late Former President Loeak was an exemplary leader, appreciated for his people-centered approach. He advocated for the Marshallese people and the greater Micronesian sub-region, in regional and international spaces on climate change, socio-economic development, and for the future of his people.
On behalf of my Wife and Secretariat staff, I send our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Madam Lieom Anono Loeak, his family and to the people of the Marshall Islands.”
