ESP people to help Bird vote

The people of East Sepik will help guide their Governor, Allan Bird, on how he will vote when Parliament decides Bougainville’s future in the upcoming Ratification.

Prime Minister James Marape told Parliament that Ratification will take place on August 30 – exactly 25 years since the Bougainville Peace Agreement was signed.

Debating the Bipartisan Committee Report, Governor Bird says, sovereignty for Bougainville is a matter that currently weighs heavily on the nation, stressing that Members of Parliament must be fully informed before casting their yes or no vote.

Bird admits his emotions are leaning one way but insists that it is only fair to consult the people of East Sepik.

All 28 Local Level Governments of the province will state their position, and the Provincial Assembly will then direct his vote.

Allan Bird says Bougainville’s independence is one of the most difficult decisions Parliament will ever face, and East Sepik’s approach is the fairest way forward.