Reconciliations show Bougainville people ready for referendum

By Joy Torome
THE people of Eivo Torau Constituency in Central Bougainville had a reconciliation ceremony to show that they are ready for the referendum.
The reconciliation was held at the Manetai Catholic Mission. Community members and leaders from the 15 wards in Eivo Torau witnessed the ceremony.
During the reconciliation, two documents were signed by the two community governments of Eivo and Torau to show that the constituency was ready for the referendum.
ABG MP for Eivo Torau Clarence Dency declared his constituency “referendum-ready” because the constituency was weapons-free and all internal issues had been resolved.
Reconciliations have been conducted throughout Bougainville.
The Terra constituency in Wakunai district held a similar ceremony on Dec 26.
Community members including chiefs, ward members, law officers, members of the ABG House of Representatives and ABG member for the Terra constituency Robin Wilson witnessed the ceremonies.
During the course of the reconciliation ceremony there was a weapons’ disposal process which was carried out by ex-combatants and youths.
Baubake constituency in the Buin district also held a weapons’ disposal ceremony in Buin town last week.