Bougainville remains steadfast to independence readiness
The Autonomous Bougainville Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the democratic choice expressed by the people of Bougainville in the 2019 Referendum.
President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Hon. Ishmael Toroama, made this statement during his address to the Bougainville House of Representatives this week, where he welcomed assurances provided through the recent Joint Supervisory Body (JSB) that the referendum results will be presented to the National Parliament by June 2026.
President Toroama stated that Bougainville and its leaders will continue to honour their obligations under existing agreements and remain ready to engage constructively at every stage of the process.
“Our approach has no hidden agenda as it is anchored in law, guided by the Bougainville Peace Agreement (BPA) and endorsed by the Papua New Guinea’s National Constitution through the amendment of part 14 of the constitution that sanction Bougainville and driven by the clear mandate of our people through the referendum result which is Independence,” he added.
President Toroama also informed Parliament of the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with Lloyds Metal, engaged to support Bougainville’s social and community development priorities alongside broader economic objectives.
He expressed that this partnership reflects the ABG’s approach of aligning private sector engagement with community benefits, local participation, and the long-term interest of Bougainville.
The President further stressed that his government continues to strengthen public financial management systems, improve revenue administration, and invest in institutional capability to ensure Bougainville is fiscally prepared to assume the full responsibilities of self-government.
As Bougainville approaches September 2027, President Toroama emphasized that independence readiness must not be viewed as the responsibility of the Executive arm alone.
“Every, Member of this House has a duty to ensure that their constituency is socially, economically, and institutionally prepared in local economic development and livelihoods, community infrastructure and basic services, human capital development, particularly for women and youth, and good governance, transparency and social cohesion.”
“Independence readiness begins at the village level. When our communities are strong, Bougainville is strong,” he said.
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