Prime Minister James Marape has congratulated Ishmael Toroama on his re-election as President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville for a second term.
Speaking from New York, Prime Minister Marape extended his warm congratulations on behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, acknowledging the renewed trust the people of Bougainville have placed in President Toroama.
“This is a strong expression of the will of the Bougainville people,” PM Marape said. “I look forward to working closely with him to continue progressing the work ahead under the Bougainville Peace Agreement.”
The 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement laid the foundation for peace, autonomy and the 2019 Referendum, in which Bougainvilleans voted overwhelmingly for independence. Both governments have since been engaged in ongoing consultations as required by the National Constitution.
PM Marape reaffirmed that constitutional processes, including parliamentary consideration of the Referendum result, would continue in the spirit of peace and partnership.
“President Toroama’s re-election provides stability at a crucial time,” Marape said. “We remain committed to respectful dialogue and supporting Bougainville’s development while safeguarding peace and unity.”
In a media statement, PM Marape also praised the resilience of the Bougainville people and pledged continued national support.