B’ville independence is a test of one’s sovereignty: Marape

The National National

PRIME Minister James Marape says that the journey of Bougainville to independence is one of the greatest issues facing the country.
Marape said there could be no greater issue than “the test of one’s sovereignty”.
He said the Wabag roadmap was the way forward.
Marape maintained that Bougainville remained an integral part of the country.
He said all consultations so far had followed the agreed timeline heading to an eventual final outcome on the Bougainville issue.
Marape said the matter of Bougainville’s independence would be progressed by the next government and reiterated that it was a significant constitutional matter.
Both governments are guided by an agreed road map known as the referendum results implementation road map which sets up the seven-year journey to the attainment of independence by Bougainville.
The roadmap timeline includes:

  • 2021 – Sharp Agreement signed;
  • 2022 – Implementation of the one line budget, Sharp implementation, establishment of Bougainville Constitutional Planning Commission;
  • 2023 – Report to 11th Parliament, tabling of outcomes of consultations; commencement of PNG constitutional amendment; assumption of Sect 289 powers;
  • 2024 – Report to Government stakeholders by Government; amendment of constitutional law process to repeal and replace Part XIV and preparation for self-government;
  • 2025 – Implementation of Bougainville Constitutional Planning Commission; Bougainville Constituent Assembly considers and adopts draft Bougainville Independence Constitution;
  • 2026 – Prepare Treaty and preparations for declaration of Independence; and,
  • 2027 – Assume all or any sovereign powers and declaration of Bougainville independence.