PNG Prime Minister, James Marape has called on Papua New Guinea to approach the Bougainville question with wisdom, respect, and unity as Parliament begins what he described as one of the most important discussions in the nation’s history.
Speaking in Parliament yesterday during debate on the Bipartisan Committee report on Bougainville, Prime Minister Marape said the country had reached a defining moment in completing a peace process that began more than two decades ago.
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“This year marks 25 years since the signing of the Bougainville Peace Agreement in 2001 and almost 51 years since our nation’s independence,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“As we celebrate Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary, Parliament now carries the historic responsibility of helping bring this chapter of our shared journey to an important point of conclusion before we move into the next phase together.”
In a statement, Prime Minister Marape thanked members of the Bipartisan Committee for their nationwide consultations and acknowledged both current and past leaders who contributed to the peace process.
He paid tribute to leaders including former Prime Minister late Sir Mekere Morauta, late former Bougainville President Joseph Kabui, current Bougainville President Ismael Toroama, former President John Momis, and many others who contributed to maintaining peace.
Prime Minister Marape said Bougainville’s story and Papua New Guinea’s story were deeply intertwined.
“For better or for worse, Bougainville has always been part of Papua New Guinea’s story,” he said.
“The story of Bougainville and Papua New Guinea cannot be defined by outside powers, colonial boundaries, or international institutions alone. Ultimately, our future will be decided by us.”
Prime Minister Marape reminded Parliament that the Bougainville Peace Agreement had successfully delivered peace for 25 years.
“Since 2001, no guns have been fired in conflict between Bougainville and Papua New Guinea,” he said.
“That achievement alone tells us that peace works and dialogue works.”
He acknowledged the sacrifices made during the Bougainville conflict by civilians, police, defense personnel, resistance fighters, and Bougainvilleans who suffered during the crisis.
“We must reflect honestly on the pain of the past while shaping a future that respects Bougainville aspirations while also preserving peace and stability for everyone.”
Prime Minister Marape stressed that Parliament must approach the issue carefully, particularly regarding security, governance, economic sustainability, and future relationships between Bougainville and Papua New Guinea.
“I speak with both my heart and my mind,” he said.
“My heart understands the aspirations of Bougainville people. My mind tells me we must also carefully consider safety mechanisms, economic sustainability, governance structures, and long-term relationships.”
Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed that any future pathway would continue to follow constitutional processes.
“The Constitution is clear,” he said.
“The referendum result matters and must always be respected, but Parliament must also make decisions in accordance with constitutional provisions and through consultation.”
He reminded Parliament that Section 342 of the Constitution requires continued consultation and dialogue before, during, and after parliamentary decisions.
Prime Minister Marape also reassured Bougainville leaders that peaceful solutions would continue to guide the process.
“We sent police and defense forces into Bougainville during the crisis years, and we know where that led us,” he said.
“We must never return to conflict.”
Prime Minister Marape said no matter what outcome Parliament eventually reaches, relationships between Bougainville and Papua New Guinea must remain strong.
“If Parliament says no, it cannot simply be a no without solutions.”
“If Parliament says yes, it cannot simply be yes without addressing practical realities.”
“We must find solutions that allow our people to continue walking together.”
Prime Minister Marape revealed that discussions between the National Government and Autonomous Bougainville Government had already explored multiple future governance arrangements and relationship models.
“There are many models around the world where nations and territories maintain unique relationships while preserving stability and prosperity,” he said.
“The objective is not division for division’s sake. The objective is lasting peace, prosperity, and dignity.”
Prime Minister Marape also made a personal reflection on his connection to Bougainville.
“If it were not for Bougainville missionaries helping my father as an orphan many years ago, I may not even be standing here today,” he said.
“So, when I speak to Bougainville people, I speak not only as Prime Minister, but as family.”
Prime Minister Marape concluded by calling on all Papua New Guineans to approach the coming parliamentary discussions without fear.
“The greatest fear is fear itself,” he said.
“We should not fear this conversation.”
“We must trust our Constitution, trust our leaders, trust our people, and find solutions together.”
The government is expected to formally introduce the government processes relating to Bougainville in Parliament next week.
Prime Minister Marape proposed that parliamentary processes relating to Bougainville be concluded around August 30, 2026, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the Bougainville Peace Agreement.