Commission launched for B’ville referendum

By CLIFFORD FAIPARIK
A COMMISSION has been set to fast-track preparations for the conduct of the Bougainville Referendum in June 2019.
Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae yesterday signed a charter to set up the commission, witnessed by Electoral Commissioner Patilias Gamato, Bougainville Electoral Commissioner George Mano and Bougainville Affairs Minister Fr Simon Dumarinu at Government House in Port Moresby.
Gamato later called on the government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government to support and fund the commission.
“The referendum is set for June 2019 and that is not too long off, considering events coming up,” he said.
“Next year, we are having the local level government elections and Apec.
“In 2019, we are required to do the referendum. So it is important for the commission to start now.”
The charter will be published in the newspapers and government gazette for the public to access.
“Within that charter will be a transitional committee to start establishing the Bougainville Referendum Commission,” he said.
Gamato said the referendum was part of the three pillars of the Bougainville Peace Agreement signed on Aug 30, 2001.