The return of writ containing the results of the 2019 Bougainville referendum was formally tabled in the National Parliament yesterday, marking a significant step in the constitutional process to determine Bougainville’s political future.
The tabling follows a Sessional Order adopted by Parliament in June, which established the procedure for considering the referendum results.
Under that order, the substantive motion to accept the referendum result requires an absolute three-quarter majority of the 118-member Parliament, meaning 89 MPs.
Minister for Bougainville Affairs, Manasseh Makiba tabled the writ yesterday, together with the Joint Consultation Report and the Melanesian Framework, for Parliament’s consideration and debate.
The 2019 referendum saw an overwhelming 97.7 per cent of Bougainvilleans vote for independence, with the remaining voters supporting greater autonomy within Papua New Guinea.
The tabling follows the conclusion of consultations between the National Government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), conducted in accordance with Section 342 of the National Constitution.
The Joint Consultation Report provides the formal record of consultations between the two governments following the referendum, including areas of agreement and disagreement and the discussions on Bougainville’s future political status.
The Joint Supervisory Body endorsed the report and the Melanesian Framework earlier this month for presentation to Parliament.
The Melanesian Framework provides a proposed pathway should Parliament decide to accept the referendum result.
Minister Makiba said it would support a phased and orderly transition, rather than an immediate declaration of independence.
Under the framework, Bougainville could progressively assume additional powers and responsibilities through a transitional period of self-government, subject to constitutional, legislative and administrative arrangements.
Me Makiba stressed that an affirmative decision by Parliament would not automatically result in immediate independence but would initiate a process requiring further decisions and legal arrangements.
He also outlined a possible pathway should Parliament decide not to accept the referendum result.
This would include completing the drawdown and exercise of remaining autonomous powers available to Bougainville, strengthening its institutions and governance systems, improving economic and financial sustainability, and continuing consultations between the two governments.
The minister said the aspirations of the people of Bougainville would remain an important consideration regardless of Parliament’s eventual decision.
He urged MPs to approach the matter with wisdom, respect for the Constitution and an understanding of the history and sacrifices behind the Bougainville peace process.
“The decision that will ultimately be taken by this House must therefore be guided by wisdom, informed by history, grounded in law, and reflective of our shared desire to secure a peaceful and prosperous future for all our people,” he said.
Parliament, he said, will now consider and debate the referendum result, the Joint Consultation Report and the Melanesian Framework before making its decision on Bougainville’s political future.