Masiu attacked over funding

SOUTH Bougainville MP Timothy Masiu was forced off his vehicle by a group of men last weekend when returning from his village, police say.
South Bougainville Regional Police Commander Senior Sergeant Emmart Tsimes said the men were angry with him for the way he distributed funds.
“The youths removed Masiu from his vehicle on Monday at the Loubai Bridge outside Buin town as he was returning to Buin to officiate at the independence anniversary celebrations after a meeting with family members at his Sanitai village,” he said.
Masiu said the men later apologised to him for what they did and returned his vehicle.
“Those responsible for the hijacking returned the vehicle, apologised, reconciled and shook hands with me the same afternoon. I thank the people, some of whom are my relatives, for allowing common sense to prevail.” Masiu also explained to them the processes of sourcing assistance from the District Service Improvement Programme fund.
“The incident has called for interaction and better understanding between the people and me as their leader,” he said.
Masiu was unharmed and remained calm and collected when he addressed people at the independence anniversary celebrations.
He referred to the incident during his speech to emphasise the need for Bougainvilleans to develop a sense of responsibility, respect for authority and good attitude. “Independence for Bougainville is imminent,” he said.
“I appeal to the people to ensure Bougainville attains independence through peaceful means.”
Masiu took a swipe at Australia for not supporting Bougainville’s push for independence and compensating the millions it made from the Panguna mine while leaving a “big hole” behind.