Tag Archives: Simon Pentanu

And still that ill-wind blows: Is the Bougainvillean referendum an expensive waste of time?

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A few years back, I published an article here on PNG Echo entitled ‘An ill wind blows in Bougainville” and it seems that the wind has still not abated but is it gathering momentum? It is well-known that the potentially fatal flaw in the Bougainville Peace Agreement is that the government of PNG has the last say – it can choose to ratify independence (or whatever the outcome of the referendum) or not.  It has the ultimate get-out-of-jail-free card and, by all accounts, is gearing up to use it. Just today, Prime Minister James Marape has given everyone a public Continue reading And still that ill-wind blows: Is the Bougainvillean referendum an expensive waste of time?→

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Independence Day message from Hon Simon Pentanu speaker of the ABG Parliament to Bougainville (AROB) and PNG

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 As we celebrate Independence Day for 2019, I want to reflect on the upcoming referendum and the future political path of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. As a Bougainvillean and a Papua New Guinean, I am less concerned about Greater Autonomy, Independence (or the ‘Third Choice’ whatever it might be). The simple fact is that two options are already guaranteed, and it is now for the people to make their choice. My real concern is more about our insouciance and disregard for good governance that we must sternly guard against, whatever the political outcome of referendum will be. For, good Continue reading Independence Day message from Hon Simon Pentanu speaker of the ABG Parliament to Bougainville (AROB) and PNG→

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