New Bougainville Parliament to be sworn in on Friday
The Bougainville House of Representatives will officially open its 5th Parliament this Friday, October 10, marking the start of a new political term for the region following the recent elections.
According to Clerk of Parliament Peter Topura, preparations are complete for the swearing in of all newly elected members, including the election of a new Speaker during the first sitting.
“Parliament is ready to swear in all members of this House on Friday, the 10th of October. The first meeting after the return of the writs will take place at 10 a.m.” Mr Topura said.
He explained that before the swearing in, the Speaker will receive and table the writs of election, followed by the official declaration of all 46 seats. The new members will then take their oaths before proceeding to elect the Speaker of the House.
“After the swearing-in, I will chair the session and suspend the meeting to give time to the regional committees from Central, South, and North Bougainville to consult and nominate candidates for Speaker,” Mr. Topura said. “Once the Speaker is elected, he will take his oath and assume the chair to preside over the House.”
Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika is in Buka to officiate in the event tomorrow.
Prime Minister James Marape is also expected to attend the event, among other dignitaries.
This year’s Parliament includes 46 members, an increase from 41 in the previous term, following the creation of five additional seats. Mr Topura said the Parliament Chamber has undergone renovations to accommodate the new members.
The Clerk added that following the swearing-in, an orientation and induction program will begin next week for all new members to familiarise themselves with parliamentary and government processes.
“On Monday, Parliament will start its induction program. Government departments will make presentations from Monday to Wednesday, followed by the Parliamentary Service presentations on Thursday and Friday,” he said. “This will help all new members understand how government and parliamentary systems operate.”
Friday’s inauguration is expected to draw a large crowd to the Parliament grounds in Buka, with residents from North, Central, and South Bougainville invited to witness the historic occasion.
“It will be an exciting time. We expect a big crowd around Parliament as people come to see their new leaders take office,” Mr. Topura said.