Bougainville CPC consultation underway in Brisbane, Australia

A massive turnout in Brisbane marked the start of a two-day consultation of the Bougainville Constitutional Planning Commission in Australia this morning [Saturday].

Bougainvilleans from across Australia have turned up and have been taking active involvement in discussions to put together their views to contribute to writing the proposed Bougainville Constitution.

Constitution Writer Dr. Katy Le Roy, and Professor Anthony Regan, who's also assisting the process, were also present to witness the discussions.

Addressing the gathering, Attorney General and Justice & Independence Mission Implementation Minister and Deputy Chairman of the BCPC, Ezekiel Masatt, called on the Bougainville Community in Australia, to commit to the added responsibility of writing the Constitution, given the overwhelming 2019 Referendum result in favor of independence.

"We are looking forward to get their contributions for Bougainvilleans in Australia. The Bougainvilleans residing overseas have also been voted for the Bougainville Referendum and its fair they can participate in the constitutional making process," Mr. Masatt said.

Encouraging discussions and originality, Chairman of the BCPC and President Ishmael Toroama, called for contributions to make the Constitution different to address the special situation and needs in Bougainville when opening the consultation.

The Bougainville Sankamap Australia Association Inc., which had requested and organized the event, welcomed the BCPC tour, and estimated over 200 registrations from across Australia physically present to make contributions.

The consultation is expected to end tomorrow [Sunday].