Bougainville issues

I HAVE been observing latest political developments in Papua New Guinea and have my own view on national Government handling of Bougainville issues.
During the early days when the Bougainville material deposit was being discovered and mined, PNG attained Self-Government and Independence.
There was not much economic activity taking place. PNG relied heavily on cocoa and copra.
When Bougainville, the world’s third-largest open pit mine came into production, which stimulated and triggered economic growth in PNG.
The taxes and revenue collected by PNG Government from Bougainville helped to build the Highlands Highway, University of Technology in Lae, University of Goroka and University of PNG.
After all those years of understanding all the pros and cons involved in Bougainville Copper Ltd’s mining activity and agreement, there were two very smart intelligent Bougainvilleans: Francis Ona and Sam Kaona.
Kaona, a former PNGDF military commander, mobilised and led disgruntled landowner’s to sabotage and stage civil war against the PNG Government.
When the landowners’ demands of K9 billion were not negotiated and met, the rebels had no option but to wage an all-out war.
In reality, the compensation claim at that time was quite reasonable compared to the minerals extracted and benefits the PNG Government received over the years since the commencement of the project.
The Government failed miserably by deploying police mobile squad to Bougainville.
The deployment of mobile squad did not help but seriously flared up the situation and that led to the Bougainville Crisis.
The Bougainville Crisis is a delicate issue and Government must amicably address the situation.
Funds must be released immediately for Bougainvilleans to manage their own affairs.
The Government must not mistreat Bougainville people but extend them the accolades and respect they deserve.
The historical secessionist sentiment and violent nature remains to date.
In conclusion, I’d like to recommend to Prime Minister Peter O’Neill and Cabinet to seriously address the state of Bougainville after the referendum.
Parliament must endorse for Bougainville autonomy or independence.

Chris Waim Karogol Ku
Okaimaul Village
Sinasina Yongumugl