SOUTH Bougainville MP Timothy Masiu has reaffirmed his support for Bougainville’s independence, calling on Papua New Guinea and Bougainville leaders to continue working towards a peaceful resolution of the region’s political future.
Speaking in Parliament during debate on the Bougainville referendum results, Masiu said Bougainville’s aspiration for selfdetermination must be respected while safeguarding the unity and future of Papua New Guinea.
He also acknowledged successive PNG governments, the Autonomous Bougainville Government, former political leaders, churches, women, youths and community leaders for their contributions to restoring peace following the 1988–89 Bougainville crisis.
Masiu also thanked Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga and Samoa, along with the United Nations, for supporting Bougainville’s peace process.
He said their contributions helped rebuild trust, promote reconciliation and create an environment for political dialogue after years of conflict.
Masiu paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the crisis and those who continue to carry its physical and emotional scars.
He said their sacrifices must remind current leaders of the importance of protecting peace and ensuring future generations inherit a Bougainville with dignity and opportunities.
The South Bougainville MP urged Parliament to carefully consider the way forward, noting that the issue required continued deliberation rather than a rushed conclusion.
He also referred to Spain’s Catalonia region as an example of a region with a strong economy, encouraging leaders to consider approaches that could respect regional aspirations while addressing national interests.
Masiu appealed to Bougainvilleans to remain committed to their political aspirations as Parliament deliberates on the referendum outcome.
“Let us not see this as an end to our journey. We will keep on going. We will keep on moving until we come to our God-destinated future, and that is the independence of Bougainville,” he said.