PM set to back B’ville

By HELEN TARAWA
PRIME Minister James Marape wants to see Bougainville receive all the support it needs in the lead-up to the referendum this year.
Marape said he appointed Abau MP Sir Puka Temu as Minister for Bougainville Affairs because it was an important agenda for the Government.
“At this time when our nation is faced with issues pertaining to the Bougainville referendum, we need a strong, stable and a very experienced hand,” he said.
“Sir Puka was gracious and kind enough to lend a hand as it’s a very senior portfolio in my view,” he said.
“Bougainville stands in our face as one of the most important agendas and we will give every best endeavour to ensure that Bougainville receives greater support.
“That’s exemplified in a very senior appointment of Sir Puka Temu to the Ministry of Bougainville Affairs.”
Marape said 2025 was only six years away when Papua New Guinea would be celebrating 50 years of independence.
“What sort of country we will bring to 2025 and beyond is something that this generation of leaders is tasked with,” he said.