ABG Leaders Educate National Members on Bougainville’s Historic and Political Process
Today, the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) leaders had a significant opportunity to engage in an informative session with the National Members of the Government of Papua New Guinea. The session aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of Bougainville's rich historical and political background.
The session was held at the National Parliament State Function Room, following the invitation of the PNG Prime Minister during the Joint Supervisory Body Meeting on Monday this week, where he expressed the need for National Members to gain insights into Bougainville's history and political process directly from ABG leadership.
During the session, ABG Vice President Patrick Nisira and ABG Attorney General Ezekiel Masatt eloquently presented an in-depth overview of Bougainville's historical journey, including the Conflict period. They emphasized the crucial negotiations and agreements that ultimately led to the signing of the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement.
One of the key points highlighted during the session was the meticulous consideration of various political options during the negotiations. ABG Attorney General Ezekiel Masatt clarified that after careful assessment, both governments agreed on only two options: greater autonomy and independence. All other alternatives were thoroughly examined and ultimately rejected.
The National Government was reminded that the referendum result overwhelmingly indicated the desire for independence, and it is essential to embrace and openly discuss this outcome.
It was brought to the attention of the National Government that the definition of independence, used in the ballot paper in the 2019 referendum was formulated by the National Government itself, and therefore the people of Bougainville voted according to the interpretation of independence that was provided by the National Government.
While concerns about setting a precedent for other regions in the country were acknowledged, the ABG emphasized that Part 14 of the National Constitution is specifically and constitutionally confined to Bougainville and does not apply to any other province.
The ABG leaders expressed their gratitude to the National Government for their engagement in this informative session and look forward to further constructive engagements as the two governments progress talks towards the final ratification.
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