PM presents K15 million to Bougainville government

PRIME Minister James Marape presented K15 million to the new Bougainville government for its public service to kick-start its process for economic independence and empowerment.
He told the people of Bougainville yesterday that it was time they built their own police and judiciary.
“Echoing the sentiments of President Ishmael Toroama, I urge you all not to lose hope, work towards the future and rebuild your own resources,” he said.
“I am a prime minister who believes in empowerment of Government and leaders closest to our people, and Bougainville people are special in respect to their long blood-shed history.
“Me coming to Bougainville with senior political and bureaucratic leadership from Waigani, with resident heads of foreign missions is a positive signal that we care for Bougainville. I was waiting for the election process to be completed so I could ramp up my personal and Government support to Bougainville. I have committed to handling Bougainville to the best of my ability, immediately empowering Bougainville when it comes to resource harvest.”
“This will enable my version of economic independence for Bougainville as an important precursor to the next phase of 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement.”