Bougainvilleans are privileged to have the right to scrutinize our leaders whether they occupy public offices or administrative positions in the Autonomous Bougainville Government.

That is the privilege that democracy offers to the people of Bougainville by allowing us to scrutinize our leaders and to express an opinion through our right to free speech on matters of national interest.

I am aware of several of our political leaders and senior public servants who are embroiled in alleged scandals that are currently plying their way through the rumor mill on social media.

As a responsible government we must ensure that the integrity of the Autonomous Bougainville Government is protected, and at the same time ensure that the truth is made known to avoid further turmoil in our leadership hierarchy.

However, there are established processes that exist to deal with transgressions by leaders that contravene the Leadership Code. We must let these processes prevail and as much as possible avoid a trial by social media.

Today in Bougainville, Social Media platforms have given a voice to the voiceless and it encourages more dynamic engagement with people at all levels when used responsibly. Nevertheless, it has also given rise to cyber bullying and the spread of malicious content.

Its unregulated content cannot allow social media to be the judge, jury, and executioner of alleged wrongdoers. In this case we have the Ombudsman Commission, The Bougainville Public Accounts Committee and the Bougainville Auditors Office who are responsible for dealing with such matters.

If there is substantial evidence that warrants disciplinary action against these leaders, then let the proper process take place and the relevant authorities deal with them.

Many people will demand justice without ascertaining the facts but I want to remind our people that these are still leaders whom we mandated and senior members of the public service. They have a right to be accorded natural justice.

I want to assure the people of Bougainville that the government will ensure that the facts are made clear and people deemed guilty will be dealt with accordingly.

Hon. Ishmael Toroama, MHR
President

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