Peace agreement clear on outcome of referendum: Momis
BY PATRICK MAKIS
The negotiations that will take place between the Autonomous Bougainville Government and the National Government on the results of the referendum is stipulated in the Bougainville Peace Agreement, says ABG president John Momis.
Mr Momis, speaking on New Dawn FM yesterday, said the peace agreement was clear that there had to be negotiations between the two governments on the outcome of the referendum before the ratification by the national parliament.
When responding to a question posed to him regarding the reasons for the negotiations between the two governments, Mr Momis said the negotiations were vital for both governments to present their views on the referendum outcome before the ratification.
“The reason why we must negotiate is because it is stated in the peace agreement. When we were negotiating the peace agreement, the former combatants were intent that Bougainville should get independence right after the referendum if the results were for independence,” Mr Momis said.
“But the PNG government were against this and said no we (national parliament) must have the final say on the referendum outcome.
“So we had to reach a compromise, if not the peace agreement would not have been signed. That compromise was to allow referendum to take place but there would be negotiations between the two governments before the ratification by the national parliament.”
Mr Momis assured the people of Bougainville that the ABG negotiating team would be fighting for their best interests.
“Don’t underestimate the power of referendum. We will be pushing strongly for the aspirations of the people to be followed according to the referendum results,” he said.
Mr Momis said if the referendum outcome was for independence and this was ratified by the national parliament, there would be another transition period to prepare Bougainville for independence.
He gave an example of Ireland and the transition period that the island nation took when it gained independence. “It took Ireland 13 years to transit to independence, so Bougainvilleans must be mindful that if we are granted independence, it will still take time to transit to full independence as we will have to ensure the transfer of all powers and functions and other administrative issues,” he said.
“Right now we need unity to prevail among the people. People must be united and support your leaders. It’s time to trust the leadership.
“The people too must start displaying traits of being independent and start working hard.”
Mr Momis commended the people of Bougainville, the ex-combatants, chiefs and community government leaders for continuing to keep to the principles of the peace agreement and working to develop the region despite the financial hardships faced.
“We must stand united and secure the best deal for Bougainville whether we have money or not,” he said.
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