FORMER New Zealand Governor-General, Sir Jerry Mateparae, has been appointed as a moderator to take charge upcoming outstanding Bougainville’s independence discussions between the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Bougainville Government.
Sir Mateparae’s appointment now paves way for both governments to discuss and finalise remaining outstanding issues before the National Parliament decides the independence status for the Bougainville Government following the 2019 Bougainville Referendum vote.
In a joint media conference today between Prime Minister James Marape the President of Bougainville, Mr Ishmael Toroama, both parties welcomed the appointment of Sir Mateparae.
“Today’s media conference is for us to jointly announce in the presence of the United Nations (UN), that we have secured the employment of Sir Jerry Mateparae who is a senior citizen of the Pacific to take charger over outstanding discussions on Bougainville independence,’’ said PM Marape.
The Prime Minister praised the appointment of Sir Mateparae stating that Sir Mateparae is a potential addition to Bougainville’s independence negotiations and discussions.
Highlighting Sir Mateparae’s expertise and wealth of experience,
PM Marape remarked that the senior citizen of New Zealand brings to the table of discussions a wealth of experiences.
The Prime Minister said Sir Mateparae once served as the Governor-General of New Zealand, as well as involved in the peace keeping processes with Bougainville and is only fitting that he is joins the negotiation table to bring meaningful discussions and lasting impacts to both parties.
“We have come a long way; since the signing of 2001 Peace Agreement no guns have been fired, no bullets have been exchanged, Papua New Guinea and Bougainville continue to maintain peace to this stage,” PM Marape said.
The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation towards Sir Mateparae’s willingness and kind feedback to assist the two governments as the moderator to deliberate on key issues.
PM Marape also acknowledged President Toroama for his continuous understanding, tolerance and patience on behalf of the people of Bougainville.
“To the people of Bougainville, your President Toroama has never let you down.
“In our meetings the president and his government have always prioritised the issue of Bougainville asking that voice of his people be heard,” said PM Marape.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the voice and the plea of the people of Bougainville and he is only concerned that all due procedures of government be met as per the 2001 peace agreement so that a final decision is made through parliament.
