Funding issue hurting peace agreement progress

National

THE Government’s reluctance to release funding to Bougainville on a timely basis is seriously hampering the progress of the Peace Agreement, according to South Bougainville MP Timothy Masiu.
Maisu, pictured,said Bougainville’s hope for a peaceful transition towards lasting peace with mainland PNG looked uncertain.
Masiu was commenting on a statement by Electoral Commissioner Patilias Gamato about the Government’s lack of commitment on Bougainville.
“The Government owes billions of Kina in outstanding commitments to the people of Bougainville.
“The development of the common roll itself is the center-piece for the Bougainville referendum and revelations by Commissioner Gamato about lack of progress are startling.”
Maisu said the Government’s flouting of rules in the peace agreement showed a lack of interest in keeping Bougainville as an integral part of PNG.
“The actions of the Government speak louder to all Bougainvilleans who are closely monitoring and assessing every action its takes.”
He said the Opposition was ready to rescue the Bougainville Peace Agreement.
“Bougainvilleans have survived under treacherous conditions in post-peace period and are continuing to live under the same conditions,” he said.
“A few changes have taken place but not enough to erase the memories of the bloody conflict.”