Tsiamalili clarifies comments at JSB meeting

Bougainville’s Regional Member Peter Tsiamalili Junior has moved to counter a statement by President Ishmael Toroama, over development funds and Bougainville’s preparedness for the 2027 National General Elections, following comments made at this week’s Joint Supervisory Body meeting.

In a statement Tsiamalili maintains that the JSB remains the central political forum for dialogue between Bougainville and the National Government, and says leaders must use it responsibly as the region navigates sensitive political and legal issues.

The Regional Member also clarified that the matters raised at the JSB are now before the courts.

The case, originally filed by the ABG, was dismissed by the National Court and is now before the Supreme Court.

He warns that public claims outside this process risk undermining the judiciary and misleading the public.

Mr Tsiamalili further highlighted on the development funds, saying the Bougainville Infrastructure Trust Account at the Bank South Pacific, under his care, hosts multiple funding streams, including cocoa and infrastructure allocations under his mandate.

He says the ABG’s interest is limited to the Prime Minister’s 100-million Kina commitment, and he is open to resolving the matter through an out-of-court settlement.

He stressed that Bougainville must maintain strong governance as it prepares for its political future, and dismissed suggestions that the 2027 National Elections may not take place in Bougainville, calling them unhelpful and premature.

Tsiamalili says Bougainville has always navigated difficult issues with dignity and respect for the rule of law, and he remains committed to working with all leaders to safeguard institutions and strengthen preparations for the region’s future.