The Bougainville Independence Leaders Forum has recommended September 1, 2027, for the region’s independence, following a 2019 referendum where over 97% voted in favor. Despite needing ratification from PNG’s parliament, leaders assert that their decisions regarding independence will remain autonomous. The focus will be on establishing a new relationship between Bougainville and PNG as sovereign nations while upholding the Bougainville Peace Agreement.
The Bougainville Independence Leaders Consultation Forum has proposed September 1, 2027, for the independence of Bougainville. This recommendation is positioned ahead of upcoming discussions between Papua New Guinea (PNG) officials and Bougainville leaders, facilitated by an independent moderator, former New Zealand Governor General Sir Jerry Mataparae. In a 2019 referendum, an overwhelming 97 percent of Bougainvilleans supported independence, although the vote remains non-binding until ratified by PNG’s national parliament.
In a formal statement, signed by 14 representatives, including President Ishmael Toroama, the Forum asserted that decisions made by the Constituent Assembly would remain unaffected by the moderation process. Bougainville leaders will independently shape their relationship with PNG as a sovereign entity. The Forum emphasized that the work of the Constituent Assembly is not contingent upon the moderation deliberations.
Additionally, the Forum outlined that the aim of the moderation discussions is to establish a new relationship between Bougainville and PNG as two independent nations. They highlighted that the moderation process should be focused on fostering independence through peaceful and constructive dialogue, embodying the Melanesian approach that values mutual respect. Furthermore, the Forum stressed that the Papua New Guinea national government lacks the authority to reject the referendum results and must engage collaboratively in upholding the Bougainville Peace Agreement and its independence outcomes.
In conclusion, the Bougainville Independence Leaders Consultation Forum’s resolution to recommend September 1, 2027, as the date for independence reflects a significant step toward self-determination. The independence movement gains momentum following overwhelming public support in the 2019 referendum and underscores the importance of defining Bougainville’s future relationship with PNG. Through constructive dialogue and adherence to the Bougainville Peace Agreement, Bougainville leaders aspire to navigate their path to sovereignty effectively.
Original Source: www.rnz.co.nz
