PM apologizes to Bougainvilleans at historic referendum results tabling

Prime Minister James Marape apologized to the people of Bougainville for the pain and suffering associated with the 10 year crisis, eventually leading to the region’s push for independence.

He made this apology in his opening statement in Parliament at the historic tabling of the 2019 Bougainville Referendum results on Thursday.

Mr Marape also called for the members to carefully examine the Joint consultation report and the melanesian framework agreement, and not be rushed into making a decision at voting time.

The historic tabling of the Bougainville Referendum results, including the Joint Consultation Report and the Melanesian Framework Agreement - signal the official process for the PNG Parliament to consider the region’s push for Independence.

Prime Minister James Marape also paid tribute to former Prime Ministers and National and Bougainville leaders who contributed to peace.

He told the house that whatever the decision parliament makes, ultimately, Peace must always prevail.

PM Marape urged Members of Parliament not to approach the eventual vote with predetermined positions, but to study the documents, consult their people and consider both Bougainville’s aspirations and the wider country.

He says members must not be rushed, adding Parliament now has the opportunity to carefully examine the Referendum result, the Joint Consultation Report, the Melanesian Framework, and to debate their contents and implications before making its decision at a future sitting.” Prime Minister Marape said the Government envisages

Upon consultation between both governments, Parliament is expected to return in October to allow members and governors to contribute fully before an eventual Vote.

Meet in October for Bougainville voting date

A date for a vote on the 2019 Bougainville Referendum results is expected to be set in October, following a meeting between the Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Governments.

Prime Minister James Marape announced in Parliament, at the tabling of the results, and that of the Joint Consultation report and the Melanesian Framework Agreement.