Driss Basri vs Michael Somare

Basri was appointed Minister of Interior by King Hassan II. He became the king's most powerful security chief, overseeing the police and intelligence services. He was a key figure in the regime's repression of political dissent.

As Interior Minister, Basri was directly responsible for the human rights abuses during the Years of Lead. He oversaw the secret detention centers, torture, and forced disappearances of political opponents, earning him a reputation as a feared enforcer.

Shortly after ascending the throne, King Mohammed VI dismissed Basri from his position as Interior Minister. This was seen as a signal of the new king's intent to move away from the repressive policies of his father's reign.

Somare, as Chief Minister, led Papua New Guinea to independence from Australian administration on September 16, 1975. He became the first Prime Minister of the newly independent nation.

Somare served his first full term as Prime Minister from 1980 to 1982, focusing on nation-building, infrastructure development, and maintaining stability in a diverse country with over 800 languages.

Somare returned as Prime Minister in 2002, serving until 2011. His final term was marked by political instability, including a no-confidence motion and a period of suspension from office due to health issues.

Somare was suspended from office due to health reasons and subsequently removed by the Supreme Court. This led to a political crisis and a power struggle with Peter O'Neill, who became Prime Minister.

Somare died on February 25, 2012, at the age of 75. He was given a state funeral and was widely mourned as the 'Father of the Nation' for his role in leading Papua New Guinea to independence.