Bougainville patriotism day
A public holiday is being observed across the Autonomous Region of Bougainville today to mark the Bougainville Patriotism Day.
The Patriotic Day reinforces unity and reminds Bougainvilleans about their long history of struggle for independence, which predates that of mainland Papua New Guinea.
This year’s commemorations are being held across the region’s main towns of Buka for North Bougainville, Arawa for Central and Buin for South Bougainville under the theme: ‘Bougainville Patriots: United for Independence.
A vehicle float across Buka Town, march-in by school children, flags on proud display and a ceremonial parade by the Bougainville Police Service, marked commemorations at the Hutjena Oval.
The Bougainville Police Service was supported by their Correctional Service counterpart, in a parade of pride and discipline.
Government leaders, departments and agencies and the public converged at Hutjena to join the celebrations.
As the future of Bougainville rests before the National Legislature for a final determination, Minister for Infrastructure and Utilities, Patrick Nisira says history must not only be remembered but must also shape the future of the region.
Patriotism Day commemorates Bougainville’s 1975 declaration of independence, a fortnight before Papua New Guinea attained independence from Australia.
It honours the region’s struggle for self-determination, the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the overwhelming 97-point-7 YES vote in the 2019 Referendum on Independence.
This year’s event carries added weight as Bougainville moves towards its targeted date for self-government in 2027 and proposed independence in 2030.
President Ishmael Toroama delivered the keynote address in Arawa and Vice President Ezekiel Masatt addressed the people in Buin in similar commemorations, reflecting on history, reaffirming peace and strengthening the call for independence.
