BOUGAINVILLE President Ishmael Toroama has reaffirmed the region’s commitment to its political aspirations, economic development, and peacebuilding efforts, while urging greater recognition of its history and the democratic will of its people.
Addressing the Bougainville House of Representatives last week, Toroama reflected on recent discussions in Papua New Guinea’s National Parliament on the 2019 Bougainville Referendum and the bipartisan committee’s findings on Bougainville matters.
He said differing views on Bougainville’s history, governance, and political future continue to shape national debate.
“Our history speaks for itself. Our aspirations for self-determination existed well before the idea of an independent Papua New Guinea came into being,” he said.
Toroama stressed that Bougainville’s push for self-determination is rooted in cultural identity, historical experience, and decades of sacrifice by its people.
He also addressed concerns about Bougainville’s readiness, including economic self-reliance, governance, and security.
While acknowledging continued reliance on inter-governmental and development partner support, he said the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) is focused on strengthening its revenue base and creating long-term economic opportunities.
“The reason for my silence is because I do not want this government to continue to waste time complaining. Instead, we must invest our time and energy into creating our own revenue,” he said.
On peace and security, Toroama said Bougainville remains one of the most peaceful regions in Papua New Guinea, and that peacebuilding remains a key priority.
He reiterated that the Bougainville Peace Agreement remains the foundation of the political process, describing autonomy as a transitional arrangement intended to support post-conflict recovery and prepare for a future political settlement.
“The most important point is that autonomy was never intended to be our final destination,” he said.
Toroama called on leaders and stakeholders to acknowledge Bougainville’s history and respect the democratic will expressed through the referendum process.
He urged Bougainvilleans to remain united and optimistic, noting increased development activity over the past year and saying the region is now “in the driver’s seat of development.”
