Bougainville President welcomes New Year, pledges continued path to Independence

President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville has extended New Year greetings to Bougainvilleans at home and abroad, thanking them for the confidence they continue to place in his leadership and in the work of the Bougainville Government.

He said the government remains committed to a shared vision of an independent, prosperous and well-governed Bougainville, noting that this year marks another important step toward political independence.

The President reminded the people that Bougainvilleans have already declared their choice for independence and said the government is continuing discussions with the National Government through the Melanesian Agreement to ensure the will of the people is properly recognised and endorsed. He stressed that the government remains firm and consistent in pursuing this political agenda.

At the same time, he said Bougainville must continue building a strong economic foundation for its future nation. He pointed to the reopening of Panguna, the establishment of the Bougainville Gold Refinery, and the development of agriculture, fisheries and other productive sectors as key drivers to strengthen domestic revenue and create opportunities for the people.

He said economic independence begins at the family, community and government levels, and encouraged all Bougainvilleans to work hard and take part meaningfully in the economy.

The President also emphasised that good governance remains central to nation-building, saying strong leadership, ethical behaviour, discipline, transparency and accountability must guide both government and the public service.

He reiterated that reforms will be introduced in performance management for senior leadership and made it clear there will be no room for complacency at both political and administrative levels.

He said the true measure of success must always be seen in improvements in people’s lives.

Looking ahead, the President said Bougainville’s long-term vision is to become a high-income, educated, healthy, peaceful and Christian sovereign nation by 2052. Through the Bougainville Nation Building Strategy, the government will continue aligning all sectors to this shared vision to ensure no part of Bougainville is left behind.

As the New Year begins, he called on leaders at all levels, public servants, churches, civil society, businesses, landowners, communities and families to work together in unity and goodwill.

He urged everyone to uphold peace, respect the law, strengthen governance systems, and prepare Bougainville for its rightful place as a sovereign nation.

The President concluded by wishing the people renewed hope, stability and progress in the New Year, and asked God’s blessing on Bougainville.