ABG and National Government sign Melanesian Agreement
The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) today signed the Melanesian Agreement with the Government of Papua New Guinea.
The Melanesian Agreement was discussed and agreed in principle between the leaders of both governments during the third Joint Moderation Consultation meeting in Burnham, New Zealand this month.
This Agreement reinforces the enduring partnership between Bougainville and Papua New Guinea, as both governments reaffirm their commitment to a peaceful, constitutional, and inclusive pathway toward Bougainville’s political aspirations for independence.
In his address during the signing ceremony, ABG President His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, described the moment as a defining occasion in the history of Bougainville’s political journey.
“Indeed, it is one of those pivotal moments of our time as we sit around this table,” President Toroama stated. “The signing of this Melanesian Agreement today signals real progress on the Bougainville Peace Agreement and our process toward Bougainville’s independence.”
The President emphasized the constitutional basis of Bougainville’s independence aspirations, reaffirming that Part XIV of the National Constitution of Papua New Guinea provides the framework for Bougainville’s right to determine its future.
“The National Constitution Part XIV provides the truth of my people's aspirations for independence through interpretation of provisions within. Today we stand tall here because we have been defending the national constitution which has given us our rights, the right to determine what type of government should be brought into the island of Bougainville.”
The Melanesian Agreement formalises joint commitments by both governments, recognising the outcome of the 2019 Bougainville Referendum, in which 97.7% of Bougainvilleans voted for independence, and establishing an agreed process for bringing the Referendum results before the National Parliament through a sessional order.
The President also acknowledged the collaborative spirit that has guided the post-referendum process and acknowledged the leadership of Prime Minister Hon. James Marape for his government’s efforts in progressing infrastructure development and dialogue since taking office.
President Toroama expressed confidence in the wisdom of Papua New Guinea’s National Parliament and in the strength of Melanesian solidarity to guide this process responsibly.
“Because of our joint creativity, I believe Parliament will make a decision that suits the people of Bougainville,” he affirmed. “There is wisdom in the Parliament, and I believe Prime Minister and your government, you have that wisdom to make that decision so that the people of Bougainville can see clearly that this is the right path we have followed.”
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