This critical next step follows the signing of the Melanesian Agreement today by Prime Minister James Marape and Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) President Ishmael Toroama which is a historic pact that outlines a clear political roadmap for Bougainville’s future.
The signing took place after high-level bilateral consultations between the two governments, held at the Burnham Military Camp in Christchurch, New Zealand.
As part of the process, a parliamentary bipartisan committee on Bougainville matters will conduct awareness and public consultation to ensure national understanding before the referendum results are presented in Parliament.
Prime Minister Marape stated: “This agreement is a breakthrough and it respects the democratic voice of the people of Bougainville while upholding the unity and sovereignty of Papua New Guinea. We are committed to a peaceful, constitutional, and transparent process.”
President Toroama echoed similar sentiments, noting that the agreement recognizes Bougainville’s aspirations while building trust between the ABG and the National Government.
The Melanesian Agreement is seen as a significant milestone in the ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts since the 2019 referendum, in which Bougainvilleans voted overwhelmingly in favor of independence.
This development marks a new chapter in Bougainville’s political journey and underscores the Marape-Rosso Government’s commitment to honoring the referendum process through democratic and legal channels.
#Bougainville #Referendum #MelanesianAgreement #PNGGovernment #UnityInDiversity
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