Writs for Arob election to be issued

THE writs for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville elections will be issued on Wednesday, says Bougainville Electoral Commissioner, George Manu.
Nominations will open on Thursday and close on June 23.
Polling starts on Aug 12 and ends on Sept 1. Counting begins on Sept 2 and ends on Sept 15. The writs are expected to be returned on Sept 15.
Meanwhile, outgoing Arob president Dr John Momis in his final address to Parliament last Friday after completing two five-year terms, said his political career spanned more than 40 years where he served in various leadership roles in the international, national and Bougainville arenas.
He started in the early 70s when he was anointed by Kieta chiefs in a ritual and was sent on a mission to free and give people the power to determine their own future.
He said Bougainville had come a long way in its journey, and the peace process had been successful so far. He attributed this to the unity, creativity and productivity of the people. “We are very lucky, although we face a lot of challenges, but we have also been very creative, productive and despite the differences we have worked together to achieve so much,” he said.
He thanked Prime Minister James Marape for recognising the significance of the Bougainville issue.
He encouraged both governments to continue to work together, especially when the current relationship between them are at its best.
He thanked the Speaker of the Bougainville House of Representatives, cabinet ministers and members, public servants, churches and the people of Bougainville.