Bougainville referendum

The National Letters

DURING the referendum, the people of Bougainville or people of that origin (the Bougainvillians) will be asked to decide on:

  • Separation from Papua New Guinea and gain independence; or
  • Seek greater autonomy from PNG.

Autonomy and independence are very different subject matters.
Having a question on autonomy confuses voters who do not understand what autonomy means to them.
What more autonomy does PNG want to give to the Autonomous Region of Bougainville when it has already been granted autonomy?
Asking Bougainvillians to seek greater autonomy is a silly question.
Just make it clear for the voters to decide whether they want independence from PNG or not.

Concerned Observer,
POM