Bougainville condemns unauthorized landing of NZ aircraft in Buka
The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has raised serious concern over the unauthorized landing of a New Zealand C-130 aircraft in Buka on Thursday, describing it as a breach of the Bougainville Peace Agreement.
Attorney General Hon. Ezekiel Masatt said the incident occurred without prior consultation or authorization from the ABG, as required under the Agreement.
He said that this principle of consultation and cooperation is fundamental to maintaining peace and stability on Bougainville.
The Attorney General further noted that the timing of the incident was particularly sensitive.
“At a time when Bougainville is holding elections, and shortly after the high-level meeting with the United Nations Secretary-General, this action has created unnecessary suspicion and apprehension,” he said.
While acknowledging that the aircraft’s mission may have had humanitarian purposes, Mr. Masatt stressed that such intentions do not override agreed processes.
“This is a serious breach of the Bougainville Peace Agreement. Whether the operation is for Humanitarian purposes or not is irrelevant,” he said.
The ABG has called on the Governments of New Zealand and Papua New Guinea to respect the Bougainville Peace Agreement and ensure that proper processes are followed in the future.
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