The Bougainville Independence Leaders Forum recommends September 1, 2027, for independence, following a referendum with over 97% support for independence. Notably, the decisions by the Constituent Assembly are to remain independent of moderation consultations with PNG. The Forum insists on collaborative implementation of the Bougainville Peace Agreement without PNG’s governance interference.
The Bougainville Independence Leaders Consultation Forum has officially endorsed September 1, 2027, as the proposed date for Bougainville’s independence. This significant recommendation precedes discussions involving leaders from Papua New Guinea (PNG), facilitated by independent moderator Sir Jerry Mataparae, a former Governor General of New Zealand.
A notable 97 percent of Bougainvilleans advocated for independence during the non-binding 2019 referendum, necessitating ratification by PNG’s national parliament. In a statement released on Wednesday, which was ratified by 14 representatives including President Ishmael Toroama, the Forum emphasized that the decisions made by the Constituent Assembly will stand independently of the moderation process.
The Forum asserted that the Constituent Assembly’s work should remain autonomous and should not be subject to the outcomes of the moderation consultations. They highlighted that the primary objective of these discussions should revolve around establishing a new relationship between Bougainville and PNG, with both entities recognized as separate sovereign nations.
Furthermore, the Forum described the moderation process as a vital step towards advancing Bougainville’s independence, advocating for a peaceful and respectful Melanesian dialogue. They articulated that the PNG national government lacks the authority to dismiss the referendum results and is responsible for faithfully implementing both the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the resultant outcomes for independence.
In summary, the Bougainville Independence Leaders Forum advocates for independence on September 1, 2027. This recommendation follows a substantial referendum result, reaffirming Bougainville’s intention to redefine its sovereignty. The Forum emphasizes the importance of independent decision-making in establishing new relations with PNG, while calling for respectful dialogue to ensure a peaceful transition to independence.
Original Source: www.rnz.co.nz
