News and Public Notices

It is with great sadness that I officially announce the passing of the Late Hon. Thomas Tari, Member for South Bougainville Veterans in the Autonomous Bougainville Government.

The Late Hon. Thomas Tari had been unwell for sometime before succumbing to his illness late last night.

The Late Hon. Thomas Tari was currently serving his second term as the Member for South Bougainville Veterans before his untimely passing. He was the Minister for Police and then the Minister for Health in my government. Due to the state of his health I decommissioned his tenure as a member of the Bougainville Executive Council early this year to allow him to concentrate on regaining his health.

Hon. Thomas Tari was a Bougainvillean patriot and a true son of the Revolution. During the Bougainville conflict he served as Commander of H Company in the Bougainville Revolutionary Army’s Southern Command.

The Late Hon. Thomas Tari provided steadfast leadership following the 1996 BRA assault on Kangu Beach and the capture of PNG Security Forces prisoners of war (POW). He was responsible for the humane treatment of the POW’s and the negotiations with the National Government delegation led by the Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, Late Sir Peter Barter, Late Michael Laimo and Grand Chief Dr. John Momis for the release of the POW's.

The release of the POW’s by the BRA hierarchy gave effect to the 1997 Burnham Declaration and played a pivotal role in the peace process that followed.

On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Bougainville I offer our heartfelt condolences to the family of the Late Hon. Thomas Tari and the people of Buin and South Bougainville.

Rest in Peace my Comrade in Arms.

Hon. Ishmael Toroama, MHR
President

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