News 07.2013

31.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Bougainville acquires more powers 

SEVEN Government divisions in the Bougainville Administration which have already drawn down their powers and functions from the National Government level are currently implementing these powers and functions according to their work plans. 

Chief Executive Officer of Bougainville’s Division of Autonomy and Implementation Paul Kebori said these divisions concerned had been carrying out their implementations in accordance with the Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) signed with their counterparts from the National Government. 

Mr Kebori also clarified that people should not be saying that the implementation status had been very slow because a lot of progress had already been achieved. 

He, however, said this did not mean that all these powers and functions would have to be implemented all at the same time. 

He said these divisions needed to look at their immediate needs based on many issues including the capacity they currently had before fully implementing the MoUs. 

Mr Kebori added that some of these divisions like Education were now preparing to make legislations on the powers and functions they already had.

The divisions that have already drawn down their powers and functions include Education, Health, Primary Industry, Lands and Physical Planning, Forestry and Works and Technical Service.

ABG is also looking forward to the signing of a MoU between Bougainville’s Community Development Division and its counterpart in the National Government. The signing which is expected to take place towards the end of this year will again pave way for the drawdown of the next lot of powers and functions to the ABG. Apart from these powers and functions, five symbolic powers and functions were earlier given to ABG in 2009. 

These include time zone, sports, liquor and public holidays. 

ABG has already been implementing some of these symbolic powers and functions instead of waiting for directions from the National Government.

Meanwhile, Mr Kebori has thanked Australia and New Zealand through their respective donor agencies, for funding the cost needed to implement these MoUs. 

Meanwhile, Bougainville has not much time for preparation if it is to go to the referendum in 2015. 

31.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Kuanai Supports Reconciliation

By Aloysius Laukai

A Bougainvillean Businessman, THOMAS KUANAI has supported the decision by former commanders,ISMAEL TOROAMA,MOSES PIPIRO and CHRIS UMA to reconcile and support the ABG in its efforts to fast track preparation of the region for Referendum.

Mr Kuanai told NEW DAWN FM in Buka this week that the efforts by all Bougainvilleans to reconcile and look at development issues was a step in a right direction.

He said that Bougainvilleans are hardworking people and can fast track a lot of activities if supported b the ABG.

MR.KUANAI said that whilst ll these are good signs,the ABG must also do its part in settling all it owes to Business houses throughout the region.

He said that many Business houses are at the verge of shutting down because bills owed by the ABG and its administration.

He said many bills have been outstanding in the last three years and the Authorities must act upon them quickly.

Mr Kuanai concluded by saying that real reconciliation can be reached if all Bougainvilleans are happy, united and geared up for the REFERENDUM that should be held anytime between the years of 2015 and 2020.

31.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Marijuana deals increase in North Bougainville

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

POLICE in the Tinputz District of North Bougainville have revealed that there has been an increase in the cultivation and selling of marijuana in the area.

District Rural Police Station commander, Constable Charlie Kean said some youths from villages situated in the mountainous areas had been cultivating the drug and selling it to those living near the main Buka-Arawa highway to earn for living. 

Const Kean said they had also discovered that youths from Buka and other districts in the region had been going to Tinputz to get marijuana to sell back in their villages.

He said last week they came across one of the youths from Buka who was carrying a bag containing ten large marijuana packages.

“Upon seeing us, he threw the bag and dashed off into the bush. Inside the bag we found ten large packages of marijuana,” Const Kean said.

Const Kean said the identity of the youth was known to the police and they were confident of arresting and charging him for possession of marijuana in the next couple of days. 

Mr Kean added: “My biggest concern is that youths from Buka are now coming to the district and taking the marijuana back to Buka. This is not a good sign and must be discouraged.” 

“Be warned that if you are caught, you will be arrested, charged and sent to jail,” Const Kean warned. 

Mr Kean is also calling on those involved in the cultivation, trading and consumption of marijuana in the district to refrain from taking part in these criminal activities.

31.07.2013

Source: The National

NZ cop’s Bougainville stint eye opener 

MARLBOROUGH’S longest serving police officer says an overseas deployment to Bougainville has made him realise how lucky he is to live in New Zealand. 

Detective Richard Rolton joined the police force in 1975. According to a report in the Marlborough Express in New Zealand, Rolton, after almost 29 years working at the Blenheim police station, put his hand up for an overseas deployment. 

He was sent to Bougainville, the autonomous region in Papua New Guinea. 

He joined six other New Zealand officers in Bougainville acting as advisers to the Bougainville Police Service as part of the Bougainville community policing project. 

The project, funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and managed by New Zealand police, puts frontline police in Bougainville to advise and assist the development of Bougainville police. 

Rolton left at the end of October last year and returned to Blenheim in early June. 

His deployment was initially for six months as adviser to the northern region commander, but he stayed an extra two months as contingent commander. 

Bougainville, which is about a third of the size of New Zealand with a population of about 175,000, was full of friendly, peace-loving people, Rolton said. 

“They’re very happy with what they have. The kids walk to school, they’re clean, they’re tidy, they’re out there playing in the sports field in front of our place. Sport is very important to them,” he said. 

“When I first arrived we were getting woken up at 5am because there’s a basketball court about 20 metres away. It was cooler at that time. You’d hear this bounce, bounce, bounce.” 

He never considered himself in danger and did not see any violence, but the three most common types of crime committed related to domestic violence, serious assaults and sexual offences, he said. 

30.07.2013

Source: Radio New Zealand International

Bougainville leader says negotiation will sort compensation claims

The finance minister in Papua New Guinea’s autonomous Bougainville government, Albert Punghau (pictured), says he is confident the question of compensation for the effects of the civil war can be satisfactorily sorted out.

The Me’ekemui faction has long touted a demand for ten billion kina in compensation as its price for any re-opening, while Mr Punghau says the ABG has claims going back to a requests for compensation made before the peace process began.

He says his government is yet to develop a policy on how to handle the claims.

“I, as minister for finance have been tasked by the government to look again into those claims so that we can meet also the government of Papua New Guinea and also maybe the government of Australia, maybe CRA [Rio Tinto, the majority owners of Bougainville Copper Ltd] or their people so that we could now try to address these compensation issues that are in front of us.”

30.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Bougainville rugby boost RUGBY UNION

By PATRICIA TOREA

The Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB) Rugby Football Union was given a K100, 000 boost from the PNG Sports Foundation’s Enhancement program to fund its Pacific in Union (PiU) program for school children in the region.

The presentation by Sports and Pacific Games Minister Justin Tkatchenko to the Governor and Bougainville Rugby Union patron Joe Lera and the president Peter Tsiamalili Jnr was held at a small ceremony on Thursday.

Governor Lera and Tsiamalili Jnr extended their gratitude to the Government in particular through the Minister for Sports and Pacific Games for the commitment into the youths and children of Bougainville through Rugby Union. 

“AROB Rugby is affiliated to the PNGRFU and has managed its affairs over the past five years and one of their key priorities is to use rugby as a medium to address social and youth issues on the island,” Tsiamalili said. 

He said the PiU program will be a gateway to aid in child and youth development and ensure that rugby traits of integrity, passion, solidarity, discipline and respect are embedded into the children and youths.

“The youths of Bougainville make up 60 per sent of the population,” he added.

“Already we have a proud role model in Hebert Tseraha who has come through the ranks in rugby on Bougainville and is a current PNG Pukpuk 7s and 15s representative,” he said.

 Tseraha successfully completed his primary education at Hahela, secondary school in Hutzena and is currently at the University of Technology in Lae while at the same time excelling in rugby.

“Hubert is the end product of what this program aims to achieve,” Tsiamalili said. 

The PiU program has been officially endorsed by the Bougainville Education Department CEO Bruno Babato and will see it incorporated in the curriculum.

The funding will cover sports teachers’ induction workshops, rugby kits and printing of resource material manuals for the schools. There will be three primary schools and two high schools taking part to begin with. 

Tseraha with former Pukpuk greats Carl Hoot and Paul Joseph will facilitate the AROB PIU program in schools inassociation with the Black Orchid rugby players and the six affiliated clubs on Bougainville.

The PIU program is a success in schools in NCD with the Port Moresby Grammar School holding its second annual festival at the Monier Rugby Park to mark the end of its program for the year last week.

29.07.2013

Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

MOMIS PRAISES TRIO

by Aloysius Laukai

The ABG President, DR. JOHN MOMIS today praised the three former Commanders in Central Bougainville, CHRIS UMA for the Mekamui Original, MOSES PIPIRO for the Mekamui Unity Government and ISHMAEL TOROAMA BRA commander for the ABG for their commitment for peace on Bougainville.

Speaking on New Dawn FM, DR. MOMIS said that it was a very difficult decision for them who have not seen each other for years to agree to reconcile.

He said that he was happy that Bougainvilleans in other districts can learn from these three and reconcile as we prepare for referendum.

DR. MOMIS said that all Bougainvilleans must be preparing the ground work for the referendum and making reconciliations was one sure way for cementing the process.

The ABG President also thanked those mediators who were involved in making the three leaders agree to reconcile.

He said we may have no money to deliver the much needed services on Bougainville however been united as one big Bougainville family was important for solidarity for Bougainville.

29.07.2013

Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

MOMIS ON DELAYED PAYMENTS

By Aloysius Laukai

The ABG President, DR. JOHN MOMIS today called on the people of Bougainville to unite and focus on the coming referendum for Bougainville.

Speaking on his weekly radio program on New Dawn FM, DR. MOMIS said that PAPUA NEW GUINEA government continues to play delay tactics to frustrated ABG Programs by not paying budgeted monies on time.

ABG President said that the much talked about ONE HUNDRED MILLION KINA for this year has not arrived and also the FIFTEEN MILLION KINA DEVELOPMENT GRANT guaranteed under the Bougainville Peace Agreement is still in Waigani and its now the end of July.

DR. MOMIS called on the people to understand these problems the ABG is faced with and not pressure their government.

He said under the Bougainville Peace Agreement the National Government must pay the ABG grants for development calculated on Papua New Guinea’s annual GDP and since the establishment of ABG in 2005 a total of K180 MILLION KINA is still outstanding for payment.

DR. MOMIS said that the ABG leaders will meet the Papua New Guinea Prime Minister and officials to discuss these discrepancies.

He also blamed the four National members representing Bougainville for not talking about it in Parliament.

DR. MOMIS said that these Parliamentarians are the mouth piece for the Autonomous Bougainville Government and must do their part to prepare the region for referendum.

The ABG President said that the ABG leaders and PNG Leaders will meet to set the date for the Bougainville Referendum next year.

Picture of Ausaid Rep on Bougainville,DEO MWESIGYE and Chris Uma pose for this Laukai picture at Panguna

29.07.2013

Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

AUSAID COMMITED TO PEACE ON BOUGAINVILLE

By Aloysius Laukai

The AUSAID representative on Bougainville, DEO MWESIGYE said that the reconciliation between Ishmael Toroama, Moses Pipiro and Chris Uma demonstrates that these leaders and their followers are committed to the efforts of the Panguna Peace Building Strategy for a United Bougainville working towards Referendum.

The spilt within the faction came about in 1990 at Roreinang mission when the late President Kabui led team decided to come to a negotiation table with Papua New Guinea Government and the Revolutionary Army to find solution to the Bougainville conflict.

However, Late Francis Ona refused to negotiate with the Papua New Guinea Government and established what is now known as Mekamui Government under his leadership at Guava Village.

This ground breaking event heralds a new beginning for the people of Panguna and Bougainville surrounding areas who are keen to reconcile their factional differences and move forward to a bright and peaceful future.

As Bougainville puts past problems behind it and makes progress towards a peaceful, safe and prosperous future, there remains a need to reunite and heal divided communities.

This is the role of Panguna Peace Building Strategy ,a forward- looking reconciliation and mediation initiative for Panguna and its surrounds.

It was set up by the Autonomous Bougainville Government in 2011, the Panguna Peace Building Strategy was initiated to help communities turn a new page, rise above the factionalism, divisions and suspicious that have done so much harm, and learn to trust each other again.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government’s Panguna Peace Building Strategy has the backing of the Governments of Papua New Guinea and Australia, with AUSAID providing K1.28 million to complement the Autonomous Bougainville Government’s funding commitment of K1 million.

A ceremony was held on 12 February 2013 where the Australian High Commissioner to PNG Ian Kemish joined leaders from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville Government and other dignitaries to officially launch the Panguna Peace Building Strategy significantly in Panguna where the seven year Bougainville Conflict began back in 1987.

AUSAID involved is made available through Strongim People Strongim Nesen Program, which is responsible for supporting the Autonomous Bougainville Government set up;

 - The Project Coordinating Officer

 - Peace Mediation

 - Community Mapping

 - Social Economic Development

 The Goal and Priorities of the Panguna Peace Building Strategy are;

 -Security and conflict prevention

 A robust and lasting peace is the number one priority.

 -Protection of Human Rights

 Consequently the promotion, understanding and protection of Human rights is a moral and practical imperative

 - Reconciliation

- Creating trust and understanding between former enemies is a supremely difficult challenge. It is however, an essential one to addressing the process of building lasting peace. Examining the painful past, acknowledge it and understanding it, and above all transcending it together, is the best way to guarantee that it does not – and cannot – happen again”

- Collaboration and participation

 - Like all projects supported by SPSN this peace strategy will encourage equality, inclusion and participation and will endeavour to make everyone aware of their rights, opportunities and responsibilities under a democratic system.

 - Achieving this will involve civil society representatives and the private sector as well as political groups and governments.

 - - Social Responsibility is the responsibility of an organisation for the impacts of its decision on society and the environment, through transparent and ethical behaviour.

 - Economic stability and strong society

 - The strategy presents an opportunity for the people of Panguna to develop their economic potential, produce stronger leaders, increase capacity and develop unified communities. Improved peace and security will also enable the Autonomous Bouganville Government to improve service delivery, especially past the blockade at the Morgan Junction.

Rainbow over Buka Passage during the Boat presentation

29.07.2013

Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

PPL41 Launched

By Aloysius Laukai

PNG POWER LIMITED last Friday presented a farewell gift to one of its senior executives who served PPL in the last 41 years.

And as a farewell present PPL board presented a Yamaha 23 ft boat and a 60 Hp Yamaha Engine to Mr.Lawrence Solomon from Pororan Island just off Buka island.

The boat was also named PPL41 to remember the years he served the people of Papua New Guinea with PNG POWER.

PNG power Limited board chairman,Joshua Bakirie in thanking Solomon for his 41 years service as an Electrical Engineer with PPL said that Mr.Lawrence was instrumental in getting PPLout of financial woes PNG ELCOM was facing then.

MR BAKIRIE said that PPL was able to become a successful company and would become a Billion Kina in PNG with the use of Hydro power systems in many parts of PNG.

He said that although MR LAWRENCE has retired he would be offering his services to PNG POWER LIMITED as a consultant.

PPL BOARD had to travel to Buka last Friday to present the gift to their former Engineer.

PPL Board chairman, Joshua Bakirie hand over the Yamaha Engine Key to Mr. lawrence Solomon in Buka last Friday.

29.07,2013

Source: Islands Business

Bougainville’s glitch

BUKA, PNG --- Failed money scam operator and renowned con-man Noah Musingku and his U-Vistract has been described as an ‘obstacle’ to the peace process and Bougainville’s aspiration to referendum for independence. 

This was echoed by several leaders and ex-combatants in Panguna during the reconciliation of three factional leaders, Ishmael Toroama, Chris Uma and Moses Pipiro. 

Former BRA commander for Buin in South Bougainville Thomas Tarii led the onslaught, saying U-Vistract is another obstacle and it’s about time the ABG addresses the issue as more Bougainvilleans are being fooled by this con-man Musingku. Tarii, who has once tried to flush out the U-Vistract organisation in Tonu, Siwai, said people like Musingku and his failed money scam must be dealt with by authorities. 

Tarii said while he was trying his best to set the foundation for unification amongst ex-combatants and the people of Buin and South Bougainville, people like Musingku and his money scam were becoming an obstacle to the process. 

He said unification was the key for peace on Bougainville, adding that unification amongst Bougainvilleans was not just a thing of today but it had been in our minds and hearts ever since we started fighting the war. 

“It is people like Musingku who brainwash ordinary illiterate Bougainvilleans to have negative thoughts and minds about respect for authorities and the purpose of our struggle, and why we fought this war.” 

Tarii said only through unity and reconciliation would we be eligible to go into referendum and achieve ultimate independence for Bougainville. 

“Let’s not curse the referendum of Bougainville because unification and unity is the key to our political journey.” 

ABG vice president Patrick Nisira also challenged Bougainvilleans not to practice cultism and a free-money mentality. 

“Bougainville will be built and developed on pure hard work and sweat and not on free handouts, free millions. No plane or ship will carry millions of kina to our shores. We’ve learnt to work hard from our ancestors, parents and from the Holy Bible teachings.” 

James Onato, another former BRA commander from Kieta, Central Bougainville, blamed organisations like U-Vistract for misleading innocent Bougainvilleans. 

He said the late Francis Ona met his fate after he listened to Musingku and his failed money scheme U-Vistract –which promised goods and money coming from vessels and planes. If he had not listened to Musingku, he would be alive today and be with us. He had come right down – lowered himself to the level of the failed money scheme after being conned by Musingku.

29.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Bougainville man arrested for raping disabled girl

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

POLICE in the Tinputz District of North Bougainville have arrested a man from the area after he was found to have raped a disable girl last week.

Tinputz Rural Police Station commander, Constable Charlie Kean said the incident which took place at Kotoita village in the Inus area saw the suspect raping the eighteen year old victim between 5-6pm on Thursday.

“After apprehending the suspect on Thursday evening, we brought him to Buka and locked him up at the Buka Police Station cell because there were threats received that the victim’s relatives were planning of coming and getting the suspect from our custody.

“The victim was taken to Tearouki Health Centre on Thursday for medical check-up. We also got her statement so we will be using this and her medical report to complete the court file,” Mr Kean said.

Apart from last week’s rape case, Mr Kean said his men are still looking for one suspect who was involved in an incest case which took place in the district early this month.

The incident which took place at Teokono village saw a father committing incest on his fifteen year old disable daughter. 

Mr Kean said the suspect had escaped before the arrival of police in his village, and has been evading them ever since. 

He however said police are still working around the clock to locate him so he could be arrested and charged according to his crime activity.

29.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Bougainville MP commended 

PEOPLE of Balil village on Nissan Island, North Bougainville have commended the North Bougainville MP Lauta Atoi for co-funding the construction of a new teacher’s house in their school.

 While expressing their appreciation last week, the school’s board of management chairman Christian Kenedy said Mr Atoi’s financial assistance had led to the successful completion of the building.

“We thank Mr Lauta Atoi for his timely financial assistance which led to this very important infrastructural development taking place in the school. 

“Since the establishment of the school in 1993, we have never received any assistance from any elected leader. All our proposals have always fallen on deaf ears. Mr Atoi’s financial assistance now marks him as the first leader to support our school,” Mr Kenedy said. 

“Due to deteriorating buildings, especially all teachers’ houses, this funding is very timely and is morale boosting to all the parents of Balil primary school,”said Mr Kennedy.

28.07.2013

Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Women leaders at the Panguna Reconciliation.

By Aloysius Laukai

Bougainville women joined their male counterparts to witness the historical signing of the peace package at the Panguna Sports Ground last Wednesday.

Women's representative at the reconciliation,THERESE JAINTONG thanked the trio for agreeing for the reconciliation which will definitely pave the way for more reconciliation ceremonies throughout Bougainville.

Mrs JAINTONG said that the women of Bougainville have been praying for peace and total unity by combatants from Bougainville.

She told the gathering that women were happy that the trio have set their ideology differences and reconciled for the future of Bougainville.

She said that the three former Commanders were from one Kuravang clan.

Pictured are ABG members, Joanne Jerome and Community Development Minister, Rose Pihei and Therese Jaintong.

28.07.2013

Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Rural schools ask for assistance

By Tapo Tovilu

Many recently set up rural elementary schools in the region are calling for the assistance from the ABG and relevant authorities in their work as educators.

Many rural run schools have been set up in areas where there are very little schools or there are no government run elementary schools nearby.

For many parents especially these schools offer a building block for education for many of their children.

Educators have called for recognition and assistance for these small schools as there work is an investment into Bougainville’s future.

New Dawn FM understands that there are currently around 150 known small run elementary schools in Bougainville run and operated by teachers in the rural areas of the region.

28.07.2013

Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Ismael encourages Bougainville

By Tapo Tovilu

Ismael Toroama while giving his speech recalled to theday the PNG DF captured Guava hill during the Bougainville Crisis.

He says that the significance of that battle was that BRA was fighting for a cause.

Mr Toroama said also that the reconciliation will give safe passage to all to come under one umbrella and move forward.

Referring to our current state he called on all communities to stop activities like disputes over land, drinking and taking of drugs and other activities which will stop Bougainville achieving its ultimate goal of referendum.

He explained that as the Government of Bougainville the ABG must come out clear to the people of Bougainville on our progress and their work because we as a country must be able to reach an international standard for us to be granted our goals.

He assured the people of Bougainville and all present there thatdespite all our differences we will build Bougainville together united as one.

26.07.2013

Source: ABC Radio Australia - Pacific Beat

Another step forward in Bougainville's reconcilitation process

There's been another step towards healing the wounds caused by the civil war in Bougainville with an historical meeting between leaders of the formally warring factions of the Bougainville Revolutionary ArmyThe three are ex-BRA kingpin Ishmael Toroama, Moses Pipiro from the Me'ekamui Unity Government and Chris Uma from the original Me'ekamui faction.

Another step forward in Bougainville's reconcilitation process (Credit: ABC) 

They were followers of late revolutionary leader Francis Ona who ignited the 10-year Bougainville Civil War in protest against the Panguna copper mine operated by Bougainville Copper Limited.

Presenter: Pius Bonjui

Speaker: President of Autonomous Regional of Bougainville, John Momis

  LISTEN HERE !  

MOMIS: Yes, the encounter between the three ex-combatant leaders at Panguna was a very, very important event, because the ex-combatant themselves, the commanders did not work together. One commander worked with the ABG, the other two supported Me'ekamui and now as a result of the reconciliation, they have pledged to work together and work with ABG to restore law and order, rule of law, good governance, support good governance, work for fiscal self-reliance, and also create a stable atmosphere which would be conducive to both internal investors and foreign investors. As the date for referendum comes closer, people now realise that we have to work harder and stabilise the situation and also work harder to ensure that there is good governance, that there some measure of democratisation to happen in Bougainville, so that when the time comes for the referendum, which we must also be prepared. People will vote freely and according to their conscience, so that the outcome will be acceptable to all factions.

BONJUI: Now, that the two other factions are ex-combatants are now fall into line with the Ishmael Toroama as a group, The authorised Bougainville government now is going to meaningfully engage with the rest of the Bougainville people to move the region ahead?

MOMIS: Absolutely. I think there is as a result of the agreement yesterday, as a result of their encounter and reaching the agreement to work together, there is certainly a greater sense of solidarity in Bougainville amongst all factions and this is good for us, because the ABG is a legitimate government on the ground and despite the fact that we don't have a sufficient funds and sufficient capacity for governance, the fact that people are now supporting the government, especially in view of the fact that in a referendum, the date for the referendum is imminent, so that we must work together to instill a sense of hope and sense of comfort that things will stable and that peace will prevail.

BONJUI: Right y ou are visiting or you are planning to visit Guava Village as a form of reconciliation on your part. When are you travelling there and tell us a bit more about  this visit to Guava Village?

MOMIS: Yes, the event is being prepared for probably in about three weeks time. They'll be a major event, because I'll be going back to the late Francis Ona's own village, where I was held captive, and then released by Francis Ona, because he agreed that I should go back unharmed to represent Bougainville in the National Parliament and  Bougainville's interests.

So I think it's important for me to go back and touch base with the people and also visit the grave of the former leader, Francis Ona.

And after that, we will have two days of consultative meetings in Panguna itself, with the landowners, which will probably the second last meeting we will have in order to prepare our people to organise ourselves, work out our position with respect to the important issue of negotiations with BGL on the Bougainville Copper Limited.

26.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Bougainville’s glitch

By ROMULUS MASIU

FAILED money scam operator and renowned con-man Noah Musingku and his U-Vistract has been described as an ‘obstacle’ to the peace process and Bougainville’s aspiration to referendum for independence.

This was echoed by several leaders and ex-combatants in Panguna during the reconciliation of three factional leaders, Ishmael Toroama, Chris Uma and Moses Pipiro.

Former BRA commander for Buin in South Bougainville Thomas Tarii led the onslaught, saying U-Vistract is another obstacle and it’s about time the ABG addresses the issue as more Bougainvilleans are being fooled by this con-man Musingku. Mr Tarii, who has once tried to flush out the U-Vistract organisation in Tonu, Siwai, said people like Musingku and his failed money scam must be dealt with by authorities.

Mr Tarii said while he was trying his best to set the foundation for unification amongst ex-combatants and the people of Buin and South Bougainville, people like Musingku and his money scam were becoming an obstacle to the process. 

He said unification was the key for peace on Bougainville, adding that unification amongst Bougainvilleans was not just a thing of today but it had been in our minds and hearts ever since we started fighting the war.

“It is people like Musingku who brainwash ordinary illiterate Bougainvilleans to have negative thoughts and minds about respect for authorities and the purpose of our struggle, and why we fought this war.”

Mr Tarii said only through unity and reconciliation would we be eligible to go into referendum and achieve ultimate independence for Bougainville.

“Let’s not curse the referendum of Bougainville because unification and unity is the key to our political journey.”

ABG vice president Patrick Nisira also challenged Bougainvilleans not to practice cultism and a free-money mentality.

“Bougainville will be built and developed on pure hard work and sweat and not on free handouts, free millions. No plane or ship will carry millions of kina to our shores. We’ve learnt to work hard from our ancestors, parents and from the Holy Bible teachings.”

James Onato, another former BRA commander from Kieta, Central Bougainville, blamed organisations like U-Vistract for misleading innocent Bougainvilleans.

He said the late Francis Ona met his fate after he listened to Musingku and his failed money scheme U-Vistract –which promised goods and money coming from vessels and planes. If he had not listened to Musingku, he would be alive today and be with us. He had come right down – lowered himself to the level of the failed money scheme after being conned by Musingku.

26.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Police pursue robbers of Chinese enterpreneurs

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

POLICE are investigating into the two incidents targeting Chinese businessmen and a woman in Buka town early this month.

Deputy commander of the Bougainville Police Service Supt Paul Kamuai said they are confident that those responsible will soon be arrested and charged.

According to police reports, the first incident saw more than K25,000 worth of store goods stolen from a Chinese-owned shop in town.

Mr Kamuai said police have already questioned and arrested some of the suspects involved and more arrests are expected to be made once investigations are completed.

The second incident which took place about a week later saw five men wearing masks, armed with a shotgun and knives, threatening another group of Chinese men and a woman at their residence, at Leta village outside of Buka town. 

They got away with K25,000 cash and other valuables – totaling over K40,000. 

Mr Kamuai said although police have yet to identify the motives behind criminals targeting the Chinese, those involved will be arrested and charged for taking part in these illegal activities. 

He said those with complaints against the business operations of Asian people should follow the right procedures to air their concerns instead of resorting to criminal practices. 

Mr Kamuai said investigations into the stealing of Air Niugini-owned computers at Buka Airport last week are also continuing.

Mr Kamuai is now appealing to people with any information concerning those involved to come forward so police can complete their investigations and arrest those responsible. 

26.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Challenger Arrives

By Aloysius Laukai

The much talked about Sealing of the Buka to Arawa road will become real soon.

This is because the Pontoon carrying Gravel or crushed stones for the road arrived this morning in Buka.

The Nivani Challenger a Tugboat from Rabaul is pictured in Buka this morning

26.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Picture of Sam Kauona

Picture of Sam Kauona and Nick Peniai in Arawa

Taken this morning at the Arawa Women's. Centre to clear rumors on Facebook that Sam was shot last night. Picture by Aloysius Laukai

26.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

NISIRA ON MINING

By Aloysius Laukai

The ABG Vice President,PATRICK NISIRA said that reopening of the closed Panguna mine will be decided by the people of Bougainville and no the ABG.

He made these remarks at the reconciliation ceremony in Panguna yesterday.

Mr.Nisira said that the ABG was using the regional forums on Panguna negotiations to access the information.

The last of the regional forums will be held at Panguna next month .

He said that the ABG was also in the process of finalizing its own mining policy which will give the ownership rights to the traditional landowners who will now own what is on their land from the surface to six feet below and beyond.

He refuted comments by Thomas TARI who said that many ABG members were not doing anything to move Bougainville to Referendum.

Mr Nisira said that the ABG was doing a lot of things but was not making awareness to inform people on ABGs achievements so far.

25.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Reconciliation a bonus for Bougainville

CONGRATULATIONS to Ishmael Toroama, Moses Pipiro and Chris Uma on reconciling and consequently moving the Bougainville peace process forward by a mile.

Their decision to shake hands and to sit down at the same table to begin the conversation in the name of peace and unity is a step forward and a bonus for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville and its people.

The decision by Mr Toroama, a former Bougainville Revolutionary Army commander, and the Me’ekamui Unit government’s Moses Pipiro and Chris Uma (original Me’ekamui faction) to put aside 17-years of conflict are in fact recipes for the return to normalcy and peace and stability. 

With the Autonomous Bougainville Government as well as Bougainvilleans within and outside the AROB all playing leading roles in preparing the island for the referendum, there appears to be an air of confidence and positivity on the ground. Yesterday’s reconciliation will bring more optimism to the whole peace process and the information dissemination exercise that has begun to educate Bougainvilleans on the referendum and their future as a people.

It is clear from the speeches at yesterday’s historic event that the leaders have their own views on the future of the autonomous region and Mr Pipiro made no secret of that. The issue of compensation by the operators of the now defunct Panguna mine, Bougainville Copper Ltd, remains an issue of contention for the various parties. But yesterday’s event is just the first step as Mr Toroama highlighted in his speech at the reconciliation ceremony.

“I have nothing personal with my two brothers. This is the first step and we have a lot to sit down and discuss on issues that is affecting the people of Bougainville,” he said.

Now that some of the key figures in the Bougainville Crisis have agreed to set aside their differences and unite for a way forward, it is essential for the Papua New Guinea National Government to work with the ABG with a view to providing a conducive environment that would enable the talks to move forward. 

If the ABG urgently needs funding support and resources to make it happen, then it is incumbent on the National Government (as stipulated under the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement) to provide that level of assistance.

Moving forward on an effective weapons disposal program, peace and reconciliation, rehabilitation for Bougainvilleans affected by the conflict, establishment of institutions, devolution of powers from Waigani etc cannot gain traction unless the ABG takes the lead with funding support from the National Government and donors in close consultation with all stakeholders including the three gentlemen who agreed yesterday to end hostilities.

Reports early this month of the National Government owing the people of Bougainville K200 million in restoration and development grants are a disincentive to the attempts by the ABG and Bougainvilleans to prepare for referendum. 

Failure by the National Government to pay its debt will only lead to frustration in the AROB and could potentially undo the good work that has already been done on the island. With the air of optimism now in the air following yesterday’s historic event, Waigani should move to release the funding immediately.

25.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Credible investors needed in Bougainville

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

CREDIBLE investors who have the heart to bring technological developments, changes and services should be allowed into Bougainville to conduct their businesses.

This advice was recently made by the former ABG Vice President and Minister for Commerce in the First House of Representatives, Joseph Watawi. 

At the same time he discouraged those with self-interests to be considered for invitation and approval because instead of helping, they will only be robbing the people. 

Mr Watawi has always been very vocal on this issue after seeing that most of the trade stores in Buka town have now been taken over by Chinese businessmen and women. 

“We must not invite the Chinese to come and run trade stores. This kind of activity sort of takes away the business activity from the indigenous people. 

“They should come and invest in things that are highly technical in nature. At the same time they should pass on the knowledge and skills to the indigenous people,” Mr Watawi said. 

Mr Watawi also called on the government and people to support investors that have already started establishing their businesses in Bougainville.

He said one of them is the Indian-owned copra company, Pristine 101 Ltd which will soon be opening its copra mill in Buka town. 

“…investors like Pristine 101 Ltd investing in Bougainville on industries like this help in many dimension. 

“It creates employment for the people, increase the tax revenue for the government that’s why it’s healthy. 

“This is the kind of business investors who should be investing in Bougainville. 

“We as the government for Bougainville must invite and attract more investors to come into Bougainville so that we establish more industries that will create more employment for the people. And at the same time it will increase the tax base. 

“Than only when the tax base is increased then we are able to achieve fiscal self-reliance in this timeframe.”

25.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Chinese deaths still investigated

POLICE investigations into the two incidents targeting Chinese businessmen and a woman in Buka town early this month are continuing.

Deputy commander of the Bougainville Police Service Supt Paul Kamuai said they are confident that those responsible will soon be arrested and charged.

According to police reports, the first incident saw more than K25,000 worth of store goods stolen from a Chinese-owned shop in town. Supt Kamuai said police have already questioned and arrested some of the suspects involved and more arrests are expected to be made once investigations are completed.

The second incident, which took place about a week later saw five men wearing masks and armed with a shotgun and knives, threatening another group of Chinese men and a woman at their residence at Leta village outside of Buka town. They got away with K25,000 cash and other valuables totaling over K40,000. Supt Kamuai said although police have yet to identify the motives behind criminals targeting the Chinese, those involved will be arrested and charged for taking part in these illegal activities. 

He said those with complaints against the business operations of Asian people should follow the right procedures to air their concerns instead of resorting to criminal practices. 

Mr Kamuai said investigations into the stealing of Air Niugini-owned computers at Buka Airport last week are also continuing.

Mr Kamuai is now appealing to people with any information to come forward so police can complete their investigations and arrest those responsible.

25.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Study kits for prep schools

Pictured is the Education manager for Treid Pacific Albert Nangoi (left) and Bougainville Education division’s Senior Professional Assistant (SPA) Elementary section, Sedi Palin with some of the boxes containing the elementary kits ready for distribution to the schools.

Words and Picture: WINTERFORD TOREAS

25.07.2013

Source: Radio New Zealand International

Former Bougainville rebel leaders in PNG reconcile

Three key former Bougainville Revolutionary Army commanders in Papua New Guinea have set aside their differences at a meeting on Wednesday at Panguna.

It is the latest step as the autonomous Bougainville province moves closer to a decision on whether the controversial mine at Panguna can be re-opened.

Don Wiseman has more:

“The three men, BRA leader Ishmael Toroama, Moses Pipiro from the Me’ekamui Unity Government and Chris Uma from the original Me’ekamui faction, agreed to reconcile after 17 years of enmity. They had split in 1996 after the then leader, Joseph Kabui, who later became the first president of Bougainville, agreed to start negotiations to end the civil war. Francis Ona, who had initiated the conflict, was opposed and sparked a split, which was often marked by violent clashes, and which delayed the province’s recovery from the war. The Post Courier newspaper reports the reconciliation is a step forward for Bougainville’s peace process. Mr Uma told those gathered the reconciliation will bear fruit in the near future. All three men say any re-opening of the Panguna mine must be sanctioned by the people of Bougainville and not by them as individuals. Mr Pipiro says his earlier claim for compensation of 3.26 billion US dollars from Bougainville Copper Ltd before the mine can be re-opened still stands.”

25.07.2013

Source: Meekamui News

GREGORY KOPA ON PANGUNA

in his Moroni Valley, he and many of his village people were against the

project, which later turned into a big hole and the relocation of their

village.

After seeing the short film which was cut from the film “My Valley is

Changing” I went up to Panguna on the 24th of July during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the three [3] top Commanders from

Kieta in Central Mekamui/Bougainville. I tracked him down and did a short

interview with him.

He told me that he was 30 years old when the film was shot, after the

mining was forced down on them he and his people were relocated to New

Moroni with iron roof houses. Later when the Bougainville conflict

started the PNG security forces burned down the all-entire New Moroni

village so they moved to a new location now. He told Mekamui News that

the benefits they received in those days were not equal to the

destruction caused to their land and environment.

When asked what his stand is now in regards to the story of BCL returning

back and reopening the mine he strongly left that matter up to the new

generation, but deep in his heart he doesn’t want BCL to return and

reopen the mine.

Gregory Kopa Is now 83 years old.

24.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Bougainville crisis claims over K3b

BOUGAINVILLE crisis-related claims have amounted to over K3 billion.

This shocking revelation was recently made by the Minister for Finance, Treasury and Planning in the Autonomous Bougainville Government, Albert Punghau.

Mr Punghau said this K3.6 billion worth of claims was raised by those in North Bougainville with only a few from Central and South Bougainville respectively. 

He however said this amount could either double or triple if many in Central and South as well as others in North Bougainville start sending in their crisis-related claims.

Most of these claims stem from damages done to properties including houses, loss of businesses and other valuables that were destroyed during the decade long civil war. 

Mr Punghau said though these claims were genuine, the ABG was not able to make these payments as its internal revenue earnings is just around K9 million per annum.

He said that is why it was important that the Panguna mine is reopened because the “surplus” revenue earned could be used to offset such hefty claims.

ABG is predicting that it’s revenue earnings for this year is expected to increase to about K17m, however this is still not enough to address some of these pressing issues like this billion kina worth of claims.

24.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

PANGUNA RECONCILIATION

Former combatant Ishmael Toroama is escorted to the stage

Moses Pipiro hands weapons to a chief

The camera team was also ready to get a glimpse

Chris Uma signs

Ishmael ready to sign

Police commissioner ACP Tom Eluh signing his bit

Vice President Patrick Nisira signing

24.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Non personal says Pipiro

By Aloysius Laukai in Panguna

Mekamui unity commander Moses Pipiro said that the division that existed in Bougainville between the Commanders were not personal but political.

He made these remarks at the reconciliation ceremony between Chris Uma and Ishmael Toroama in Panguna today.

The ceremony was witnessed by ABG leaders headed by Vice President PATRICK NISIRA ABG Ministers,CEOs BRA and Mekamui soldiers and veterans association members from North Central and South Bougainville.

The Panguna Sports ground was packed by people who gathered to witness this historic occasion on the peace process.

Reconciliation just about to start at Panguna

Ready for the Trip to Panguna

23.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

A STEP TOWARDS UNIFICATION FOR BOUGAINVILLEANS

By Edward Kenai

A significant reconciliation is to take place in Panguna between Ishmael Toroama, Chris Uma and Moses Pipiro on the 24th July 2013. This is seen as a very positive step towards unification for all factions that has since divided amongst themselves since the Bougainville Peace Agreement was signed.

Since the Height of the Bougainville Civil War in the early 90s, a standoff within the BRA rank and files took place when a decision taken by the Political Leader at that time the Late Joseph Kabui was not well taken by the Late Francis Ona the Revolutionary Leader.

The Late Kabui made a decision to enter into negotiations with the PNG Government to find a lasting solution to the civil war which claimed a lot of lives. They were all under the Bougainville Peoples Progress (BRAs Political Arm) umbrella that ruled during that time.

Francis Ona didn’t agree and so Kabui had no choice but to stick to his decision to enter into a round table talks with the PNG Government.

Francis Ona didn’t like the idea about Autonomy but wanted OUTRIGHT INDEPENDENCE but Kabui wanted the Peace Process to continue that eventually led to the BOUGAINVILLE PEACE AGREEMENT and the Autonomous Bougainville Government being established.

What took place at that stand off was termed as the ‘ROREINANG COUP” which is something that has never been discussed since the BPA was signed up till now. This took place in a meeting in Roreinang Village in Kieta District, the village were Ishmael Toroama comes from. The ‘Roreinang Coup’ is the ROOT of the splits and factions that we have in Bougainville today.

Kabui realized that there would be no ‘Military Solution’ to this Civil War and so made a bold stand to get to the round table with the PNG Government and talk Peace process.

On a Military aspect, Ishmael Toroama decided to move with Kabui to support him all the way until the Bougainville Peace Agreement was signed and eventually ABG established.

Chris Uma and Moses Pipiro remained with the Late Francis Ona and so had to name the faction ‘MEKAMUI’ because BRA’s Political leadership and Military Leadership was getting the round table to talk Peace and Normalcy.

This is how the factions began. Many of us Bougainvillians who enjoy the Peace and normalcy today should not forget this bold moves that the leaders took at that time.

This move now allowed BRA to start negotiations with the PNG Government.

Since then a total of 25 agreements and MOUs were signed that led to the Bougainville Peace Agreement which is the 26th Agreement according to the Chronology of agreements reached between parties at that time.

The Late Francis Ona had to have the Morgan Check Point up and call the surrounding areas "NO GO ZONE' and so Chris Uma as his military man had to be in charge of the Morgan Junction Check Point.

Also in regards to the Bougainville Peace Agreement , the Late Francis Ona did not want to participate in the Bougainville Peace Process and also the signing of the Bougainville Peace Agreement because he still demanded outright Independence and not an Autonomous Government Concept.

His right and dignity as the Leader of the Revolution was well respected by Kabui and Toroama.

The Political Leaders ( The Late Francis Ona and the Late Joseph Kabui ) have since passed away, but the Military people that stood in support of their decisions are still alive today and so their reconciliation is very significant to UNIFICATION for Bougainvilleans.

Reconciliation on the 24th July 2013

An INDEPENDENT MEDIATION TEAM has been working around the clock to get the factional leaders together and also get them to a round table talks to set a stage for the Significant Reconciliation.

The first ever meeting which saw for the first time the three war lords come together face to face for talks was at the famous Morgan Junction.

A series of meetings and mediations have already been conducted with the recent one held on Friday 12th July 2013 at Arawa.

The Independent Mediation Team together with the ABG Veterans Minister and his CEO to attend and have their inputs.

A final reconciliation date has been set for the 24th July 2013 and the venue would be in Panguna.

All Ex-Combatants ( BRAs, Mekamui’s, Resistance and other factions) from North, Central, South will arrive in Arawa on the 22nd July and all be meeting at the Arawa Youth Centre before going up to Panguna on the 24th July 2013 for the Reconciliation Ceremony.

This reconciliation is a step forward for THE UNIFICATION PROCESS for all of us Bougainvilleans.

21.07.2013

Source:  Kathweb

Papua-Neuguinea:

Schwierige Situation für Kirche in Bougainville

Der großteils katholisch geprägte Landesteil soll 2015 über seine Unabhängigkeit abstimmen

Wien, 21.07.2013 (KAP) Auf die weithin unbekannte krisenhafte Situation in der Diözese Bougainville in Papua-Neuguinea hat der Geschäftsführer der Koordinierungsstelle der Österreichischen Bischofskonferenz für internationale Entwicklung und Mission, Heinz Hödl, hingewiesen. Dieser hielt einen Vortrag am Samstag in Stift Lambach über die dortige kirchliche Situation. Er tat dies in Vertretung für Father Polycarp Kaviak, der bezeichnenderweise von den Behörden Papua-Neuguineas keine Ausreisegenehmigung für die Teilnahme an der "Fachtagung Weltkirche" erhielt.

Die jüngere Geschichte der aus zwei Inseln bestehenden Diözese sei vor allem durch den blutigen Bürgerkrieg, der von 1988 bis 1997 andauerte, und der totalen Blockade Bougainvilles durch Regierungstruppen, bestimmt. Dieser forderte zwischen 15.000 und 20.000 Todesopfer. Dass über diesen Konflikt in internationalen Medien nicht berichtet wurde, erklärte Hödl unter anderem damit, dass dieser in unseren Breitengraden wohl auf kein Interesse gestoßen sei, obwohl für 2015 ein Referendum über die Unabhängigkeit von Bougainville geplant sei. Hödl sagte außerdem, dass es in Bougainville für insgesamt 200.000 Einwohner nur 10 Ärzte gebe. Außerdem betrage die Kindersterblichkeit 11,2 Prozent.

Bougainville großteils katholisch

"In Bougainville haben wir 60 bis 70 Prozent Katholiken, aber im gesamten Land sind es 27 Prozent", erklärte Hödl. Dennoch seien 96 Prozent der Gesamtbevölkerung Christen. Hödl erklärte dies mit der hohen Anzahl von Lutheranern, Adventisten und anderen Konfessionen. Diese arbeiten zum Teil recht gut zusammen. Der Klerus bestehe zur Hälfte aus Einheimischen. Es sei wichtig, dass auf alltäglichen Nöte und Sorgen der Menschen eingegangen werde. Die Kirche sei hier eine der wichtigsten Kräfte der Zivilgesellschaft. Dabei seien vor allem die kleinen christlichen Gemeinschaften wichtig. Dort gehe es "um Bibel und um Gebet". Einmal wöchentlich träfen sich diese Communities zur Besprechung und Auslegung der Bibel, was in einem Gebet münden würde. Die Leiterinnen und Leiter dieser Gemeinschaften erhalten auch eine Weiterbildung "in Fragen des christlichen Gebetes und der Spiritualität".

Bemerkenswert sei außerdem, dass alle Katholiken - in Naturalien oder in Geld - zehn Prozent ihres Einkommens an die Kirche entrichten. Was damit geschehe, werde dann von allen gemeinsam festgelegt. So gebe es zum Beispiel ein "Mikrokreditprogramm", das der Gemeinschaft zugutekomme. Durch diese Selbsterhaltung der Kirche werde diese auch nicht von äußeren Einflüssen abhängig. Im Pastoralplan seien auch die Rechte und Verantwortungen der Bürger von Bougainville verankert. Hödl verglich dies mit dem Fach "Staatsbürgerkunde", das früher an unseren Schulen unterrichtet wurde. Auch die religiöse Unterweisung sei ein zentraler Punkt. Es gebe nun in allen Kirchen und Kapellen Bougainvilles eine Sonntagsschule, wo nach der Messe unterrichtet werde.

Zwischen Tradition und Moderne

Aufgrund dessen, dass Papua-Neuguinea ein Land mit insgesamt 1.000 Sprachen sei, käme es immer wieder zu Spannungen zwischen den althergebrachten Traditionen und der Moderne. Es ging sozusagen "von der Steinzeit ins Internetzeitalter in weniger als drei Generationen." Dieses Spannungsverhältnis führe zur Entwurzelung der Menschen, sowie zu Sicherheits- und Drogenproblemen. Das habe es vorher nicht gegeben, so Hödl. Verstärkt werde das Problem dadurch, dass das an sich hohe Wirtschaftswachstum bei den in Armut lebenden Menschen nicht ankomme. Der Menschen leben von dem, was sie selbst anbauen und auf dem Markt verkaufen können.

20.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

EVALUATION WORKSHOP CLOSES

By Aloysius Laukai

The Five days Tulele Peisa Inc Evaluation and Three year Planning workshop ended this afternoon with the workshop charting the next three years of the Resettlement Project in Tinputz.

The workshop which started on Monday looked through the problems and challenges faced by Tulele Peisa since 2005 up until 2013 and now up to 2016 and beyond.

The plan now includes several areas of sources funds and also ways to raise funds for the project locally.

Participants represented the TP Management, TP Board,Host communities, Carterets Communities, settlers and the COE from Tinputz and Carterets, the Catholic church and a representative from the local Tinputz SDA church.

Chairman of the Board in his closing remarks thanked the participants for contributing to the way forward for TULELE PEISA in the next three years to 2016.

One of the activities the management and Board will embark in the coming weeks is to make campaigns locally as TP has been over promoted overseas and not locally on Bougainville.

20.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

CSO CONCERNED

By Aloysius Laukai

When Government and CSOs in Bougainville are working around the clock to address the issues of violence against women and alcoholism, the problem is getting worse, especially the issue of violence against women.

Last night between the hours of 9 and 11 pm, a man (named) who will remain anonymous at this time had been drinking and driving came crushed into the gate of JSK Guest Apartments in pursuit of his wife he had continued to bash since the previous night.

Without respect to the tenants the said man grabbed his wife who had been seeking refuge at a relative and began to pound heavily on her.

Any one that tried to intervene received the bashing and insults of this man, unfortunately including the UNDP Rep who could not stand the beatings of the woman and tried to intervene.

The worse part of the case was when the husband forced his wife unto his vehicle and drove out at top speed. The woman sensing that she would be beaten further back home, then tried to jump out of the vehicle, but in the event fell out and the vehicle run over her.

The woman is currently responding to treatment at the Buka general hospital. The police was called but responded late. The case should be a test case for the Buka Police. The tenants of JSK feel this act of indiscipline must not be allowed to continue and urge the police and Women organizations to bring this to the attention of the law, and the criminal made to apologize to the public.

20.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

MANANAU OISCA PROJECT QUESTIONED

By Maria Laukai

The people of Bougainville especially the people of Bolave in Bana district are questioning why the work on the proposed MANANAU OISCA Agriculture Project stopped.

The Project was established to work with the OISCA program in the East New Britain to train local Bougainville students on Agriculture.

The Division of Primary Industry was coordinating the project in which some buildings including a classroom and Teacher’s house were built.

Landowners from the MANANAU area agreed to give the land to the project and work was going smoothly for some time.

New Dawn FM understands that a local teacher from the BANA district was also requested to start the school under secondment from OISCA in the East New Britain province.

Our attempts to get some answers from the Division of Primary Industry were unsuccessful.

20.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

COMMITTEE APPOINTS NEW CHAIRMAN

By Aloysius Laukai

Siwai District Peace and Security Committee, a committee established to coordinate all Peace and Security issues at the district level has elected a new chairman on Wednesday 17th July 2013 after the former chairman and late Joseph Noro passed away 2 months ago.

The new chairman, a former ABG HoR member in the last government and Chairman of the Siwai Veterans Association Mr. Michael Komoiki was welcomed by the committee to lead the committee after his appointment.

The District Peace & Security Committee established last year as a model with technical support of UNDP has achieved significant progress in peace building in the district.

It was instrumental in hosting the first ever ARMS Summit last year in which the people of Siwai were able to freely discuss and resolve number of options to deal with weapons currently in their communities.

One of the outcomes from the arms summit was for the community to take ownership to deal with weapons stored in the villages by using the appropriate traditional mechanisms and clan structures.

Komoiki’s strong Veterans leader after his appointment this week made a commitment to take the community driven approach a step further by involving the Police and Former Combatants to carry out Community Peace & Security awareness with support of chiefs to deal with law and order issues related to home brew, drugs and weapons.

This special operation would also confiscate home brewing apparatus and illegally smuggled beer and also monitor weapons in the community. Since the police are understaff with only five regular policemen a number of ex-combatants have put their name forward to support the police in this special community peace security exercise which is expected to improve the law and order situation in the district.

Acting Executive Manager of Siwai Mr. Martin Tumuki together with the Chairman’s of the COEs is happy with the work and progress of the Siwai District Peace and Security Committee.

They have also thanked the United Nations for their continued support to Peace and Security in the region after last week’s announcement in Buka by the UN Resident Rep Mr. David Maclhalan-Karr about the UN Peace Building Fund to support the work of the Peace process on Bougainville.

The UNDP Southern Coordinator Mr. Peter Siunai who provided technical support to the district in the establishment of the Peace and Security Committee said the model has improved the coordination of peace building at the district level and will need to be extended to other districts so the peace process is well coordinated to achieving lasting peace for the island.

The Bougainville Peace Strategy which is on the draft, as soon approved by ABG, will link the District Peace Committees to effectively address Peace and Security issues which are precondition to referendum, said Mr. Siunai.

19.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

ABG committed to education

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

THE Autonomous Bougainville Government is committed to improving the standard of education in Bougainville.

This is evident in the allocation of substantial amounts of money towards various educational institutions in the region.

According to last year’s budget, K9 million was allocated to various technical, secondary and high schools in Bougainville. The funding was sourced from the K100m given by the National Government last year and earmarked for high impact projects.

Of this K9m allocation, seven of these schools were given K1m each while four others each received K500,000.

Those that were allocated K1m include Devare High School, Arawa Secondary School and Asitavi High School in Central Bougainville, Haku Day and Nissan High Schools in North Bougainville and Tonu and Bana High Schools in South Bougainville.

Koromira Technical High School in Central Bougainville, Tinputz High School, Bougainville Technical College and Kunua Technical High School in North Bougainville each received K500,000.

Kunua Technical is a new proposed institution to be established in the Kunua district. 

Apart from this, the ABG also allocated K500,000 towards its school fees assistance program. 

However, utilisation of this funding has been very slow due to the late release of this K100m to the ABG, which only took place in November last year. 

The same amount of money has also been budgeted for these schools this year. However, the ABG is still waiting for the National Government to release the next K100m so that these institutions will receive their share.

Meanwhile, those benefitting schools are fortunate to have been given the funding as they will be using it to improve their infrastructure. 

Some of them are still using rundown buildings which were built before the crisis. 

19.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Cannabis use rise in Buka

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

THE consumption rate of marijuana is now on the rise in nearly all the villages in the Haku constituency on Buka Island.

According to a concerned community leader from the area, many youths, especially grades ten and twelve school leavers, are now heavily involved in taking these illegal drugs.

This young leader who wished not to be named decided to publicly reveal this alarming increase in marijuana consumption after his children had found two large neatly packed marijuana drugs near their village early this week.

He is now calling on the chiefs, community leaders and other stakeholders from the area including the police to address the marijuana issue in the constituency as a matter of urgency.

“I am now calling on the police, Haku Munhil Assembly and other chiefs between these villages to make a move now and address this issue. I want the Churches to also intervene before it’s too late. This is a very urgent call to you all to come together and address it before it gets to worse,” he said. 

He added, “Rape and stealing between Elutupan, Hanpan and Lemanmanu is getting worse.”

“There is a big group of boys who roam around at night and do this, especially stealing. And those doing this are always believed to be under the influence of marijuana.” 

He said the villagers have been monitoring the movements of these youths, saying those from the Lemanmanu area normally walk all the way to Elutupan to collect their share. 

He added that some mothers from the area have been protecting their children after learning that their sons have been suspected of being involved in this marijuana trade and consumption activities. 

18.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

SECURITY A CONCERN

By Aloysius Laukai

The ABG needs to improve its Law and Order and security situation throughout Bougainville if it is serious about attracting Foreign Investment according to a visiting Businessman.

The Businessman who is on Bougainville for one week said that he heard that Bougainville was a good place to invest in however when he arrived in Buka he found that the situation was totally different after dark.

He said that the recent armed hold ups of some Chinese businessmen has already tarnished the good name of Bougainville and the ABG must do something to reverse this situation before it is too late.

The businessman who wants to remain anonymous said that security was a great concern for investors and that this security can also include tourism which can be a big revenue earner for Bougainville in the future.

18.07.2013

Source: Radio New Zealand International

State crime expert bemoans skewed discourse over Bougainville mine

Please don't miss the ESBC's comment below!

A criminologist with a particular focus on Bougainville says many grass-roots communities in the autonomous Papua New Guinea province have not been given access to information about Rio Tinto’s role during the civil war.

In recent months, Rio Tinto’s subsidiary Bougainville Copper Ltd has been among the principles discussing expectations that its huge Panguna copper and gold mine, which has been shut for 24 years, will re-open.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government says it hopes to begin negotiations with BCL soon.

Dr Kristian Lasslett from Ulster University’s State Crime Initiative says any decision on the long-term future of Bougainvilleans must take into full account, the long list of unresolved abuses from the civil war sparked by problems around the mine. He spoke to Johnny Blades.

KRISTIAN LASSLETT: I don’t think the people on the ground have been privy to the full story on what Rio Tinto did during the conflict. They haven’t learnt about what the executives have admitted to. They haven’t learnt about the depth of Rio Tinto’s support of the PNGDF or what they said to the government. And I think that would be absolutely vital information that would then [help us] make an informed decision about their future. I also think we need to see a more diverse range of experts going to the islands to advise people and the government about their options. At the moment there seems to be very much one voice and that voice is talking about the mine reopening. And there are not other options looking at sustainable forms of development that might provide a less divisive way of generating revenue, given the mine’s history on the island.

JOHNNY BLADES: So you feel the whole discourse about the reopening of the mine is being skewed at the moment?

KRISTIAN LASSLETT: Yeah. I think at the moment the debate about the mine is being very much skewed. The ABG and Bougainville Copper Ltd have developed a very strong narrative, and that narrative is that independence and autonomy hinge upon there being enough revenue coming in, and that owing to the conditions on the island the only source of revenue is the mine reopening. In addition to that, there have been suggestions by ministers from within the ABG that were the mine not to open, other catastrophic consequences could arise, including the reoccupation of Bougainville by the PNGDF. You could imagine it would have a frightening effect.

JOHNNY BLADES: Standing up for the rights that were infringed upon and all the abuses and so forth also can be seen, surely, as asserting statehood, which is all part of this autonomy question.

KRISTIAN LASSLETT: Yes, that’s right. There is clearly a very strong case for a civil action, and I would also suggest there is a very strong case for criminal liability. This is another avenue - getting the resources to rebuild the island. Because as we know Rio Tinto is one of the wealthiest mining conglomerations in the world at the moment.

17.07.2013

Source: PNG Attitude

Panguna strategy charts positive road for Bougainville

by LEONARD FONG ROKA

BOUGAINVILLE’S LEADERS AND political authorities  and are looking at the Panguna District – site of the former copper and gold mine - as the catalyst for an economic leap for the autonomous region of Papua New Guinea  in the north of the Solomon Islands archipelago.

In terms of natural resources, Bougainville is the largest and the richest island of the Solomon archipelago. In 1899 it became part of the German New Guinea colonial administration that used it as the launching pad for its New Guinea civilising effort taken over by the Australians after World War I.

In the 1960s, as the colonial ruler, Australia, preparing its New Guinea territory for nationhood, approved the development of the Panguna mine that became an important factor triggering the Bougainvillean struggle for self determination since.

Bougainville ended up part of the independent PNG state in 1975; but the accommodation kept PNG quaking as the protests in Bougainville continued.

In 1988, after all the years of dissatisfaction and peaceful protest by Bougainvilleans, the Panguna mine became the catalyst of action to tear down PNG’s exploitative rule of the Solomon Island people of Bougainville.

A decade later, with the dawn of the Bougainville peace process, the Panguna District leadership played a significant role in finding a solution to the conflict that had sacrificed the lives of some 15,000 Bougainvilleans and much property destruction.

But internal politics in the Kieta area affected progress in development and peace-building for the Central Bougainville region.

The conflict had being complicated and without much room for understanding and negotiation; thus it had divided the people. Kieta had seen factions led by men like Chris Uma, Moses Pipiro and Ishmael Toroama.

With Bougainvillean leaders looking at the Panguna mine as the economic driver for the future development of Bougainville after the referendum planned 2015-2019, there are moves by the people across Bougainville calling for the re-opening of the mine.

There is evidence that this is creating change in the hearts and minds of the Panguna people.

A few months ago, leaders in Panguna created the Panguna Peace Building Strategy (PPBS) that is now playing significant roles in uniting the people of the District.

Operating under the Panguna District Administration, the strategy now oversees the peoples’ views on mining in the villages not only of Panguna but across many areas of Central Bougainville and South Bougainville’s Bana District.

Landowners understand what the leaders of the Autonomous Bougainville Government want. Last week, all Panguna mine site landowners from Pirurari, Dapera, Moroni and Guava met in Panguna with the Panguna Peace Building Strategy to voice their concerns over the re-opening issue.

The landowners said they are willing to welcome mining to help finance the compensation for lives and property lost in Bougainville.

Furthermore, they are willing to allow mining for economic recovery and strengthening of Bougainville independence. To them innocent Bougainvilleans died for independence and this challenge must be met.

The gathering also heard that, before mining resumes, the ABG and whoever is the mining company should let them know about their future life as a result of mining operations: issues such as automatic employment and good compensation or royalties.

Their most pressing demand was to close the door to all non-Bougainvilleans.

Landowners also wanted a new waste disposal system. They don’t want gravel stockpiled on the dumps already in existence and they do want environment-friendly management of waste from the concentrator mills down the Tumpusiong Valley and in the sea in South Bougainville.

The meeting heard that the new mining venture must grant all mine sub-contracts for catering, tyre services and other services to Bougainvilleans and allow no firm outside Bougainville to tender.

They said Bougainvilleans are innovative people so the miner should come first with education for Bougainvilleans.

The landowners want to see every village across Bougainville connected by sealed roads; every river to have permanent bridges; and every island community to have a jetty. These improvements are what the mining company should think about before talking about re-opening the mine.

One great breakthrough for the Panguna people is the conflict between Bougainville Revolutionary Army leaders, Ishmael Toroama, Chris Uma and Moses Pipiro, which is scheduled for reconciliation late this month.

This trio with their followers have long kept the people divided politically and have also regularly fought each other over their own personal interests, mostly over the Panguna mine site and money from scrap metal and government projects.

In line with this, ABG President Dr John Momis will soon be visiting Guava Village for the first time as Bougainville president.

These events certainly indicate that Bougainville is moving and not stagnant.

17.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Bougainville eyeing RD Tuna

By ROMULUS MASIU

ARAWA business houses are eyeing the makers of the famous Diana Tuna tinfish brands – RD Tuna Canners Ltd – for direct purchase of their products to Bougainville.

A powerful delegation from the Autonomous Region led by ABG Minister for Commerce, Trade and Industry Wilfred Komba visited the Cannery at Bidar, Madang Province. 

Accompanying Mr Komba was the managing director of Diparus Enterprises Limited Dickson Siparu, and Lynchar Trading managing director Charlie Kuanai – two of the leading wholesale and retail outlets in Bougainville. They took the opportunity to strike some deals with the leading tinfish makers in the country during the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) in Madang. Mr Siparu said it is time Bougainville business houses go direct to the factories — both in the country and overseas — and get their supplies instead of buying from distributors. 

With this, prices will go down to benefit the locals in the region. Minister Komba encouraged Bougainvillean business houses to start going direct to factories and get their goods, saying it is time now to move away from distributors. 

During the visit the delegation had the chance to taste different types of RD Tuna Canners brands with the latest big tin Diana Tuna in oil a hit. RD Tuna Canners Sales and Marketing Manager Roger Galon welcomed the team and urged them to come direct to his cannery in Madang for their orders to Bougainville.

17.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Investors Scared of Bougainville

By Aloysius Laukai

New Dawn FM today received reports that big investors are scared to invest on Bougainville .

And the report also stated that the Chinese operatinge small shops on Bougainville are those who do not have much funds to invest.

The report also stated that those who want to invest big money on Bougainville are dead scared to spend their money on Bougainville.

The possible investor said that Bougainville has become a very bad place to invest in Papua New Guinea and if the current situation does not improve no investor will come to Bougainville in future.

17.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Tinputz is alive this morning

Tinputz is alive this morning with its usual Wednesday market

17.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

A small river that meets

A small river that meets the sea at the Tinputz Harbour

17.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Buin Welcomes Development

By Aloysius Laukai

A chief from The Troubled spot, Konnou Constituency in Buin, FRANK MONA says if the criminal activity in Buka and Tinputz is not addressed by Authorities then the ABG is welcomed to operate from a more secured Buin Town.

He told New Dawn FM that the break and enter of small canteens for soft drinks to mix home brew was a sign of poverty and he questioned why people have to come so low when we always talk of our blessed island.

MR MONA said that with the Referendum coming up in two years he was very concerned at the criminal activities terrorizing our possible investors.

He also questioned why leaders were tight lipped on these activities.

MR MONA also commended the Veterans Association for assisting our Police to maintain law and order in South Bougainville.

He also said that Buin is the only town on Bougainville with Government land available to both local and outside investors.

New Dawn FM understands that with the establishment of Customs,Quarantine and clearance facilities Buin will definitely become a hub of Local and International business activities in this part of the world.

17.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Last forum and What?

By Aloysius Laukai

With the last Panguna mining negotiation forum remaining,these are some questions in the people's minds.

Will the mine ever reopen?

What kind of signs will tell the people of Bougainville the Panguna mine reopening is getting closer?

Where will the manpower come from?

Will it be safer for outsiders to work and live here?

Are the CRA or other investors safe to re-invest in Bougainville?

These and several comments collected from the people of Bougainville by New Dawn FM following the recent spate of armed hold ups of possible investors and also break in of stores in Buka and Tinputz towns last week.

17.07.2013

Source: Radio New Zealand International

Bougainvilleans unaware of Rio Tinto’s PNG past, says criminologist

Please don't miss the ESBC's comment below!

A criminologist with a particular focus on Bougainville says many grass-roots communities in the autonomous Papua New Guinea province have not been given access to information about Rio Tinto’s role during the civil war.

In recent months, Rio Tinto’s subsidiary Bougainville Copper Ltd has been among the principles discussing expectations that its huge Panguna mine, which has been shut for 24 years, will re-open.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government says it hopes to begin negotiations with BCL soon.

Dr Kristian Lasslett from Ulster University’s State Crime Initiative says any decision on the long-term future of Bougainvilleans must take into full account, the long list of unresolved abuses from the civil war sparked by problems around the mine.

“They haven’t learnt about what the executives admitted to, they haven’t learnt about the depth of Rio Tinto’s support of the PNGDF or what they did to the government. And I think that would be absolute vital information.”

Dr Kristian Lasslett

16.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Seminar on peace efforts on Bougainville

by Alexander Rheeney

A TWO-day seminar planned for next month will enable Bougainvilleans to get an update on the implementation of the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement.

The untapped potential of the autonomous region’s economy and the ability of crisis-affected communities to move on with life will also be brought to the fore at the seminar scheduled for August 29-30 in Port Moresby.

The Port Moresby-based Bougainville Association chair Paul Nerau told the Post-Courier in a recent interview the two-day seminar would revolve around the theme “Bougainville’s sustainability going forward,’’ and its outcomes would be a win-win for all stakeholders.

“The program is still at the draft stage but at the seminar’s conclusion it should be a win-win situation (in terms of information disseminated) for all stakeholders including Papua New Guinea and the autonomous region of Bougainville,” he said.

Some of the seminar presenters are considered experts on the peace agreement and have played key roles in its formulation. 

These include Australian constitutional lawyer Anthony Regan and academic Dr Edward Wolfers from the University of Wollongong. 

Respected Pacific Island economist Dr Satish Chand will also give a presentation on the economic aspirations of the autonomous region. 

While award-winning Catholic nun, Sister Lorraine Garasu, will give seminar participants an insight into the challenges she faces in her attempts to rehabilitate conflict-affected Bougainvilleans.

PBA deputy chair and former MP Sam Akoitai appealed to national parliamentarians to attend the two-day seminar to appreciate the complexities of the peace agreement.

“It is important for all levels of government to understand the Bougainville Peace Agreement,” he said.

While the association has and will take the lead in disseminating as much information as possible through the planned seminar and in the lead-up to the referendum, PBA executive Salome Rihatta said they have not forgotten Bougainville’s next generation who were born after the crisis.

“We are working with student associations from UPNG (University of PNG), DBTI (Don Bosco Technology Institute) and the high schools as a lot of them don’t know the background to autonomy as they were born after the crisis,” she added. 

16.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Query on MoUs

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

MANY Bougainvilleans are still in the dark and waiting for the Autonomous Bougainville Government to come out clear on the implementation status of the Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) signed in China during a trip President John Momis and his 34-member delegation took in November 2010.

They have been looking forward to the implementations of these MoUs after seeing that many tangible developments would soon be taking place in the region, however, to date no update had been given by the Government concerning these important signings.

They are now calling on the Momis-Nisira Government to explain whether these MOUs will ever be achieved or not.

Below are the brief descriptions of the seven MoUs that were signed between President and different business organisations in China:

* ABG (of the Independent State of PNG) and AVIC International Holdings Corporation of China November 2, 2010 for the establishment of the ABG-owned airline and the purchase contract of Y12 computer and H425 helicopter for operation in Bougainville;

* ABG and Hunan Hydro and Power Design Institute of Ministry of Water Resources of the People’s Republic of China to develop the power supply industry in the region and parties agreed to establish a joint venture company involved in development of all electric power supply systems in Bougainville'

* ABG and Shanghai Minqing Chamber of Commerce for an invitation visit to Bougainville to explore joint venture shipping company with ABG;

* AABG and the China Oriental Dream International Travel Service for an invitation to come to Bougainville to explore the development of tourism opportunities in the region and act as tourism agent of Bougainville and to invest in and develop tourism facilities;

* ABG and the Shanghai Fujian Chamber of Commerce to visit Bougainville and agree to explore investment opportunities in Bougainville in the manufacture and supply of building materials and cargo storage and distribution;

* ABG and (i) Shanxi Ruike New Energy-Saving House Manufacturing Co. Ltd (ii) Xinzhou City Sifang Railway Engineering Co and (iii) Shanxi Hosia Engineering Design Co. Ltd to enter into an understanding to conduct feasibility study of construction project for civilian housing, etc.

16.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

A man's plight on climate change

by ROMULUS MASIU

A Bougainvillean is personally taking up the fight to spread awareness on how to prevent climate change.

Patrick Kanasu popularly known as ‘Grassroots’ by his Bougainvillean wantoks is outspoken when it comes to climate change issues. The 60-year-old from Kapana village, Konga Area of Siwai District, said this fight was not personal but was to help all the people.

When asked of how he came up with the idea of spreading the gospel of climate change, he said it was on 2011 in the morning of June at around 7am when he dreamt of doing this thing.

Grassroots believe that by 2030, millions of people will become migrants and refugees of global warming.

“In the Pacific Region, Kiribati is a living reality where natives are disappearing. This concerns many people who are suffering. What about the sinking atolls of Bougainville, especially Carterets Islanders? They have already become refugees – leaving their island to settle at Tinputz,” he said.

Grassroots wants the issue to be addressed by the relevant authorities. 

They need to talk more about prevention climate change. Grassroots has drawn up a document to combat climate change. 

He believes it is everyone’s duty to protect the poor and the earth, to protect nature, creation and the environment. His vision is for Religious Instruction or Religious Education to be a compulsory subject in the school curriculum. 

“It must not be unbalanced. To balance one’s intellectual and character we must develop Christian values and morals.”

His awareness is based on environmental damage, believing the political, the social and economical to be very important aspects to be addressed in order to prevent global warming throughout the region.

“There are much safer and cleaner ways for providing energy instead of polluting the environment. We don’t have to pollute our environment. We can introduce turbine, solar energy, hydro electricity and also biomass energy,” Grassroots said.

16.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Copra machine arrives

by WINTERFORD TOREAS

COPRA farmers in Buka and other villages located in North Bougainville will soon be getting more money than what they used to earn previously from selling their produce.

This follows the recent arrival of the machine that will be used to crush copra and extract oil for exportation.

Known as the expeller, this state-of-the-art machine which is also the latest to be introduced in the copra industry was bought by Pristine 101 Ltd, an Indian owned company based in Buka, for $US1.5 million (about K3.5m) from the United Kingdom. This machine which took 18 months to construct and complete was made specifically for the Pristine 101-owned copra mill in Buka.

While making the announcement last week, Buka Mill project consultant Joseph Watawi said the purchase of this machine showed the seriousness of the company to help farmers in Bougainville.

Mr Watawi said once the mill was in operation, farmers would no longer have to tightly bag their produce anymore. Instead they can “just load their dried copra, straight from the copra dryer onto the truck trailers and then to our mill in town. It saves you energy and also saves cost because farmers will no longer have to pay for copra bags.” 

He said this mill would be capable of crushing 100 tonnes (1000 copra bags) a day. Apart from this machine, Mr Watawi also announced that another forty 20ft containers containing equipment and materials to be used in the mill have already sailed out from Chennai in India and Singapore and should be arriving in Bougainville early next month.

He said if things work out well, they should be commissioning the mill between December and January next year. 

16.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Abundance of water on Bougainville

Natural rain or spring water is healthy and refreshing. On the Bougainville highway there are several places where travellers can stop for water. This girl was pictured in the rain filling her drink bottle from a pipe that runs water from a nearby mountain creek. Picture: DAVID LORNIE.

16.07.2013

Source: Radio New Zealand International

Mining shareholders dismiss Panguna compensation suggestions

As a possible re-opening of the Panguna copper and gold mine in the Papua New Guinea province of Bougainville looms one vested interest group is signalling its not happy with talk of compensation being sought.

At a series of fora around the province the Autonomous Bougainville Government has been explaining its mining legislation and seeking the reaction of Bougainvilleans to a re-opening of the mine, which 25 years ago sparked the civil war.

A re-start of the mine is considered vital for sparking the moribund Bougainville economy, especially as it counts down to a vote on possible independence, likely within three years.

There is significant support for a re-opening but with provisos that compensation be paid and rehabilitation undertaken.

The president John Momis says these issues have already been broached with the company, Bougainville Copper Ltd, whose executives will not be surprised by the conditions.

The head of a group representing minority shareholders, Axel Sturm from the European Shareholders of BCL, says they support a relaunched mining company building roads and hospitals but dismiss suggestions it should pay compensation. He spoke to Don Wiseman.

AXEL STURM: We shareholders - as I understand, Rio Tinto, also, is a major shareholder - we are OK to invest another US$5 billion into the mine. And I think that is more than enough compensation for a situation that was not caused by Bougainville Copper.

DON WISEMAN: Whatever has happened has happened. The condition that the people of Bougainville are putting on it is that there is compensation paid before you move to Stage 2, which might be the reconstruction. So my question is whether you would support that, and you sound to me like you’re not happy with that idea.

AXEL G. STURM: No, I’m not happy with the idea to give recompensation in the form of money. Rebuilding former structures - that is clear that we would back that - but we would not back to give the Bougainvilleans money so they go away to Australia or elsewhere in the world and spend the money there, instead of staying on the island and working for the future of the island.

DON WISEMAN: That would be your condition? If they got compensation money it would have to be spent on Bougainville?

AXEL G. STURM: No, compensation money [would be] in the form of investment on Bougainville. That may be hospitals, schools, roads or whatever, but not in the form of money to single persons who then go away from Bougainville. That we will not back. We are backing everything which is for the benefit of Bougainville, but not for the benefit of single persons on Bougainville. And it’s always the same situation in the past, that single persons try to get advantage, and others - poorer people - stay poor. That’s a problem.

16.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

FR Bosco one of the TP Board members writing his ideas to the paper at the Evaluation and Planning workshop.

16.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

THREE MORE TO COMPLETE PLAN

By Aloysius Laukai in Tinputz

Tulele Peisa’s Relocation Coordinator, BASIL PESO says that TP is on target with its plan to complete houses planned for the Tinputz Relocation site.

He told the Evaluation and Planning workshop currently underway in Tinputz that TP plans to build TEN Houses for ten families and so far has completed Seven with three more to be completed by the end of this year.

MR. PESO said that although the organizations has been dragging behind with its plans to complete these houses due to financial constraints the organization remain focus to complete these buildings.

He said that the community in Tinputz have been very supportive of the project and this has helped the project to move forward.

MR. PESO said that TP has other plans to relocate more islanders to other locations on mainland Bougainville that the Diocese of Bougainville has allocated.

These areas are, TEAROUKI,MABIRI and TSIMBA on the West Coast of Bougainville.

16.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Evaluation workshop Second Day

By Aloysius Laukai in Tinputz

The Five Days Tulele Peisa Inc Evaluation workshop today complete most of its evaluations of the work of TP starting 2005 to 2013.

From the discussions made by all stakeholders, TP has come a long way despite facing many difficulties and challenges since its inception.

Tomorrow the participants will discuss mainly the way forward for Tulele Peisa as an NGO Organisation in the next three to five years ahead.

16.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

TEENAGE PREGNANCY A CONCERN

By Maria Laukai

Teenage Pregnancy is increasing rapidly and is raising concern to Doctors at the Buka General Hospital.

This concern was raised today by the O and G doctor of the Buka General Hospital, DR.JOE VILOSI in an interview with NEW DAWN FM.

He said that a lot of girls were getting pregnant at a very young age and in School particularly those in Schools.

DR. VILOSI said that there is a breakdown of communication somewhere either with Parents, Teachers and other relatives who should be supporting the growth of the child.

He also said that Teachers are not performing their role in Schools in disciplining the students which gives more time to peer group influence in Schools.

DR.VILOSI also said that parents were allowing their kids to have mobile phones which the kids are using to send in pornographic pictures, Adult movies and other illegal activities.

He said parents the community at large are not showing good examples by swearing at the kids and swearing in public places.

The Doctor did not rule out Alcohol has one contributing factor in the breakdown of discipline in our communities.

16.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Tp Evaluation Workshop Starts

By Aloysius Laukai in Tinputz.

Tulele Peisa Inc a local NGO group on Bougainville started its five days Evaluation and Three years Development Plan Workshop in Tinputz this afternoon,

The organization tries to assist the Carteret Islanders who are under constant threat due to Climate Change and Sea Level Rise.

The organization started in 2007 on Carteret island when the people realized

that sitting and waiting will get them nowhere and the islands were slowly going under water.

The people themselves organized and registered TP with IPA to commence fundraising and advocacy efforts on Bougainville.

Executive officer, Ursula Rakova welcomed the participants most of them TP board members, host community participants and Church representatives with Carteret Islanders themselves and other stakeholders.

The workshop ends this Friday.

14.07.2013

Source: Radio New Zealand International

Bougainville compensation demand queried by BCL

A group of minority shareholders in Bougainville Copper Ltd says it doesn’t want compensation to be paid as a condition to the re-opening of the Panguna mine.

There is significant support in the autonomous Papua New Guinea province for the mine to re-open and boost the economy, but Bougainvilleans expect the company to pay for rehabilitation and compensation first.

The head of the European shareholders of BCL, Axel G. Sturm, says they would oppose cash compensation being paid to individuals but would back investment in rebuilding the province’s infrastructure.

“That may be hospitals, schools, roads or whatever, but not in the form of money to single persons who then go away from Bougainville - that we will not back. We are backing everything which is for the benefit of Bougainville, but not for the benefit of single persons on Bougainville.”

Axel G. Sturm of the European shareholders of BCL

13.07.2013

Source: Me'ekamui News

SAD SITUATION

by mekamui 

It’s a very sad situation, the way the leaders are going about with the mining forum and the push for re-opening of the close Panguna mine. Mekamui news always maintains that the pro-mining leaders manipulated the forum with the backing from BCL and it’s shareholders.

This is the truth, that those who attended the past forums were those who were invited by the facilitators who in many ways 70-80% for re-opening of the mine and who would and have contributed in favour of re-opening the mine. For those others who were invited and 80-90% No to re-opening the mine were brainstorm by the facilitators at the start of the forums that the cry for Independence will not be possible if the mine doesn’t open so during the meetings they change their minds.

After the couple of forums held so far the ABG president is saying that a minority are still against reopening the mine which is what Mekamui news been stating over and over again that it will leads to killing machine. Mekamui news found out that the bulk of the grass roots people out in the villages are still against reopening the mine and hasn’t given the charge to voice their views and concern out.

A prominent businessman and landowner from Tungpusiong told Mekamui news on Friday in Arawa that they are against reopening the mine they don’t want anymore waste dump down to them. Also on Tuesday 9th July when waiting for transport at Morgen check point to go to Siwai Colonel Alex Dakamari who is in charge of the check point told Mekamui News that even they [ABG] or whoever talk about reopening the mine the answer from us is No.

Mekamui news further asked people in Arawa about it and majority of those interviewed echo the say thing, we don’t want mining.

It would be great and best in order to avoid any more blood shed on the island for ABG to held a referendum on Panguna mine rather than the one sided forums which they say public forum but only invited people attended and not the grassroots who are the ones will carry the pain and burden.

13.07.2013

Source: Papua New Guinea Mine Watch

People not minerals the largest resource on Bougainville

Bountiful and beautiful Bougainville

by Dr Satish Chand | Islands Business

I have for the past three years been travelling to the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (ARB) which formerly was the North Solomons Province of Papua New Guinea. The people of the ARB, that now number approximately 200,000, suffered immensely during the decade-long conflict that commenced in November 1988 and was brought to an end after the peace agreement signed in August 2001. They are now slowly rebuilding from the ashes of the conflict.

‘Cooked’, the local lingo for the setting of fire, were infrastructure, houses, hospitals, warehouses, schools, and much of the townships of Panguna, Toniva and Kieta. Thousands of people were killed as the police and subsequently the PNG Defense Force tried to muscle in the combatants. The killing and destruction that ensued is a major blemish on the history of PNG, and the Pacific more generally.

Bougainville has remained peaceful for the past decade and a half. Schools, hospitals, and townships are being rebuilt. Australia, New Zealand, and Japan are helping rebuild roads, bridges, schools, health facilities and police posts. Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF or Doctors without Borders) is doing a marvellous job providing health services in South Bougainville. 
Discussions are ongoing on the reopening of the Panguna copper mine that halted production in May 1989. When exactly will the mine reopen remains to be resolved, however. Rio Tinto, the majority owner, makes no secret of its “focus on finding, mining and processing the Earth’s mineral resources in order to maximise value for [its] shareholders”.

The people of Bougainville remain deeply divided on the desirability of reopening a mine that triggered the conflict and has been dormant for the past four years. Some of the folks I spoke to were eagerly awaiting the reconstruction of the mine, in the hope that it will bring income, taxes, employment, social services, and the like of the good days gone by. Arawa, Kieta and Panguna at the height of mining were bustling towns. A former Miss PNG told me that those were the days when women shopped in high heels pushing trolleys in large supermarkets in Arawa. Others that I spoke to were just as cautious, warning of the environmental damages caused by BCL (Bougainville Copper Limited), the effects of which remain to this day. Most outsiders think of Bougainville as a giant ruined mine that once produced mega dollars worth of copper, gold and silver. Others think of the mainland of Bougainville as a large heap of precious minerals and little else.

These perceptions are wrong. Mainland Bougainville is rich in resources. The problem with Bougainville is that it has too many resources. And the poverty in contemporary Bougainville can be attributed to the bountiful resources. 
The largest resource Bougainville has is its people. Friendly, fullsome and funny people all the way from Buka in the north to Buin far down south. Bougainvilleans are big and beautiful people. Many have a wicked sense of humour, pointing out to me that the missionaries who went there from Fiji one hundred years ago tasted good.

Late last month while on my way to Arawa, I stopped to collect some bananas and kulao (green coconuts) at a roadside market. The old market vendor with teeth and gums stained to the lips with betel nut handed me a heap of green-skinned bananas and cut open a fresh green coconut—all for Kina 3 (approximately A$0.30). The bananas were the best I have had for a long while. I commented (in Tok Pisin), while munching a mouthful, that these were really sweet. This old lady retorted, in English, that “this is the sweetest bananas in the Pacific region”. I corrected her by stating that ‘they were the second sweetest bananas in the Pacific’. I got the expected reaction from her: “what do you mean?” I told her, in a cool and collected voice: ‘Fiji has the sweetest bananas’. The stained gums and teeth stuck out behind a beaming smile. Pointing her finger straight at me, she shouted out that I was from Fiji. I pretended to be an Indian, but to no avail as she just laughed it off, telling me that I was a Fiji Indian! We talked for a while after that when she relayed her stories of having visited Nadi and Suva, though some several years ago. And best of all, she had some extremely fond memories of a nation that I still call home.

Tourism, untapped potential

The economy of Bougainville remains battered and broken. But a lot is changing. Bougainville still boasts the best war relics from the Second World War. Memories of General Yamamoto, who was shot down and killed in South Bougainville, remain in the form of a primary school there. Old Japanese tanks, many unexploded mines, ‘dead’ and the few live guns that are constantly being dug out from the dumps, and a lot more await the keen eye. Torokina, which once was a thriving American military base and now a land-locked district located on the Empress Augusta Bay on the west coast of the mainland, is perhaps the best kept tourist secret within the entire South West Pacific. Some five hours ride on a banana boat from Buka, and that is possible only on a good day, would get the most determined traveller seasick. But once there, it is a spot worth all the trouble. Guesthouses, albeit with very basic facilities, are there for the thrill-seeker. Realising the tourism potential of Bougainville requires better transportation links around the autonomous region. Given the rough terrain, a ring road around the mainland is difficult but a shipping service as a substitute requires just a few jetties—most of them already in place except one in Torokina. The above together with improved law and order could entice a shipping company into providing a round-the-island daily shipping service. Communications is less of an issue as my Digicel phone worked fine, allowing me to talk to my son in Canberra from nearly all over the autonomous region.

And bringing light

Bougainville is emerging from the dark past of its violent crisis. Electricity generated from diesel powered generators is now supplied to residents in Buka, Arawa, and Buin. A small home-made hydro-electric plant supplies electricity to parts of Panguna. More home-made hydro-electric plants light up villages in the surrounding hills too. Bougainville has a lot more potential to generate hydro-electricity. Fresh water is one of the many things that the people of the mainland have in plenty. The large mountain range that runs as a spine on the centre of the mainland has fed large and fast flowing rivers, each of them surrounded by dense forest. One community has partnered with PNG Sustainable Development Program Ltd (PNGSDP) to build a turbine with a capacity of generating 0.2 megawatts in Togarau, a community located in the mountains of North Bougainville. Paul Akaoitai (pictured), the resident (bare-chested) chief who showed me around the site, explained that they had plans to build more catchments with bigger turbines downstream to light up all of north Bougainville. His community is drawing up plans to build a piggery, a poultry farm, and a potato chips venture so as to provide a sustainable source of income for the many smallholders engaged in growing fresh garden produce. Just as well, given that cocoa, the backbone of the economy, has suffered a heavy blow from cocoa pod borer. Bougainville is beautiful and its bountiful resources have the potential to provide for the needs of the majority of its people. A large mine could help but only if the mistakes of the past are not repeated.

13.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn On Bougainville

Security Graduate

By Aloysius Laukai

56 youths both men and women graduated from a three weeks High Risk Security training at the UBS security centre in Buka.

The program was sponsored by Post Courier.

Pictured is Kevin Smith the MD of post courier inspecting the Guard of honour.

Woman Security Receiving her Certificate

12.07.2012

Source: Post-Courier

Travel Air to service Bougainville

By SEBASTIAN HAKALITS

TRAVEL AIR, a 100% nationally owned airline company operating under the trademark of Mangi Lo Ples will soon be operating in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

Sales and Marketing Manager of Travel Air, Jim Winfrey and Ground Operations General Manager John Eri recently held discussions with the ABG Minister for Transport and Civil Aviation Carolus Ketsimur and a representative from the Office of the ABG President, for the airline to start its operations in the region.

Mr Winfrey said their main purpose is to provide a service of choice to customers at a low cost, which will also benefit the customers in terms of the low fares being offered.

If we secure a space with the Airports Corporation, then we will operate as soon as possible in the region and we are also looking at having flights three days a week, said Mr Winfrey.

He added that whether it was a private or business or church trip the company will be offering discounts of 30%, 50% and the lowest of 75%.

Mangi Lo Ples currently services Port Moresby, Lae, Hoskins, Rabaul, Mount Hagen, Wewak and Madang and is now looking towards including Bougainville and Vanimo. 

Mangi lo Ples operates a fleet of four Fokker 50 aircrafts with a seating capacity of 50 passengers.

12.07.2012

Source: Post-Courier

More Chinese robbed in Buka

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

BOUGAINVILLE police have reported another armed hold-up of Chinese businessmen and a woman in Buka. 

The incident, which took place on Tuesday night around 10pm, saw five men wearing masks and armed with a shotgun and knives threatening five Chinese people at their rented accommodation before getting away with K25,000 cash and other valuables including four laptops, a DVD player, seven expensive mobile phones and one expensive necklace valued at K5000- the total coming to over K40,000.

The criminals also took off with two passports and two bank cards belonging to two of the victims.

The Chinese are employees of the Bougainville Import Export General Corporation Limited, a joint venture company which was established between ABG and a Chinese company.

Buka Police Station commander, Chief Sergeant Alex Gunan said police believed these criminals may have been guided by some of the people living near where the Chinese were staying.

Sgt Gunan said police have already taken two suspects for questioning after they were seen acting suspiciously when police arrived.

The landlord also reported that these two had several times gone to his place to buy cigarettes before the incident took place, a thing he said was not a common practice for them.

Sgt Gunan said these two had also diverted police on the actual escape route taken by the criminals, again clearly showing that they were involved and knew about the hold-up.

He said if they had not diverted but assisted police it would have led to the capturing of these criminals. Sgt Gunan is now appealing to people there to come forward with information so police can continue with investigations and arrest those responsible.

Mr Gunan also revealed that police have received information that those criminals targeting Chinese-owned shops in town have been bribing people with money before carrying out their planned activities.

In a previous armed hold-up the shop’s security guards were alleged to have received payments from the criminals to assist.

Sgt Gunan said police have also arrested a youth from Tohatsi village in Buka who was caught selling some of the goods that were stolen from that Chinese store.

Police are expected to make more arrests soon. 

12.07.2012

Source: Post-Courier

ABG’s CS facility discussion on

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

A FIRST ever discussion concerning the possible reopening of the former Kuveria Corrections Facility in the Manetai area of Central Bougainville took place last week.

The meeting which was held at Bove last Tuesday was attended by ABG Minister for Community Development and member for Eivo-Torau constituency Melchior Dare, ABG Special Projects Coordinator Ephraim Eminoni, Sam Roroga from the Bougainville Lands Division and the chiefs and people of Tarara, Bove and other nearby villages surrounding Kuveria including Manetai and Vito.

According to Mr Dare, the clan members had expressed their interest over the reopening of the facility. But they also spoke highly of some of the bad incidents that took place during the operational days of Kuveria Jail.

Mr Dare added that the landowners also voiced that they wanted a new deal to be reached before allowing the facility to be reopened, instead of using the one that was done before the crisis. The clan members were instructed to discuss this issue further before the next meeting which was scheduled to take place towards the end of this month.

Mr Dare said the landowners will be outlining their positions during this second meeting.

He added that it is believed one of the issues to be raised is the reconciliation ceremony between the former Bougainville Revolutionary Army and the Correctional Service over the killing of some warders that were based at Kuveria during the outbreak of the crisis in 1989.

12.07.2012

Source: Post-Courier

Carving out life

Words and picture: ROMULUS MASIU

Many of his works can be found in guest houses throughout Bougainville and also PNG. 

Joe is putting his God-given talent to use with his latest carving (pictured) discouraging men from bashing their wives and vice versa. His carving depicts a man bashing his wife with this saying ‘Noken paitim meri. Lo itok’ (the law says, don’t bash women) written at the bottom. Joe says, while stakeholders are addressing the domestic violence or violence against women in their different ways, he would also carryout his campaign through his carvings. 

12.07.2012

Source: Papua New Guinea Mine Watch

Momis and the mining industry forced to retreat over “world first” mining law

Bougainville President John Momis, and his mining industry backed Australian advisors, have been forced into a humiliating climbdown over new mining laws which would have taken away customary rights and made Momis and his government king over any future mining decisions . In an interview this week Momis has very quietly admitted he has 'reversed his position', that he now accepts "landowners must be recognized as the owner of minerals" and a 'revised draft Mining Act' is being prepared. [1]

This is all a far cry from the loud fanfare that Momis generated when he announced the original draft law in March. The proposed legislation was misleadingly celebrated as a "world-first" for its recognition of landholder rights by a compliant Australian media led by Jemima Garrett and the ABC. [2]

In fact the truth was rather different, as PNG Mine Watch revealed in a series of articles which dug beneath the headlines and analyzed the actual wording of the new laws - 'Mining laws not so revolutionary' [3] and 'Landowner revolution or government power grab?'. [4]

The truth, as we revealed, was that the new laws actually took rights away from customary landowners and gave the Bougainville government exclusive rights to dictate where mining would occur and which mining companies would benefit.

The new laws were written for Momis by Australian 'consultants', including Anthony Regan, who were exposed as being funded by the Australian government [5] and the mining industry, including Rio Tinto [6]. When the consultants links were revealed it was an ABC journalist who jumped to their defence. [7]

Momis initially took out full page newspaper advertisements in PNG newspapers to try and defend the new laws [8] but he has now been forced to retreat in the face of opposition from ex-combatants.

We look forward to the publication of the revised draft Mining Law and seeing how far Momis and Rio Tinto are prepared to go in conceding power to the people of Bougainville.

References

[1] http://ramumine.wordpress.com/2013/07/11/bougainville-could-have-two-mines-momis/  

[2] https://ramumine.wordpress.com/2013/03/07/pngs-bougainville-to-pass-world-first-mining-law/

[3] http://ramumine.wordpress.com/2013/05/13/bougainville-mining-law-not-so-revolutionary/

[4] http://www.islandsbusiness.com/2013/6/mining/landowner-revolution-or-government-power-grab/

[5] https://ramumine.wordpress.com/2013/02/27/australia-warned-to-stay-out-of-bougainville-affairs/

[6] http://ramumine.wordpress.com/2013/04/24/ausaid-fuels-bougainville-mining-tensions/

[7] http://ramumine.wordpress.com/2013/03/13/will-the-real-anthony-regan-please-stand-up/

[8] http://ramumine.wordpress.com/2013/04/23/momis-responds-to-criticism-of-mining-law/

11.07.2013

Source: Business Advantage PNG (BAPNG)

Bougainville could have two mines: Momis

Bougainville leaders consider lifting exploration moratorium

Bougainville leaders are considering lifting the moratorium on mineral exploration which has been in place since the 1970s, in case the Panguna gold and copper mine does not re-open.

The President of the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), Dr John Momis, has told Business Advantage PNG in an exclusive interview that he wants work to re-open the mine to begin later this year.

‘We’ve already started the initial discussions with Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL) about some of the issues that must be resolved before they start their construction work.

‘Procrastinating on opening the mine, even five years, is a bit far.

‘We must come to an agreement to allow BCL to come and set up their liaison office in Arawa to deal with some of the practical problems, which are not immense, which are not insurmountable, to enable BCL to start spending money on reconstruction work, and that will bring a lot of income to the people and revenue to the ABG, and I think that is what we need.

‘The former commander of the Bougainville Revolutionary Army, Sam Kauona, is now on side and in agreement with the need to re-open the mine.’

In a joint media statement this afternoon, Dr Momis and Kauona said they had agreed that while re-opening the Panguna mine was ‘the first priority’, it may be necessary to allow ‘limited new mineral exploration’.

They said however it would not be good for Bougainville to have numerous mines.

‘There should be no more than two mines operating at any time.’

Momis also said that he and Kauona had reached a common understanding on key principles underlying the development of a new mining law.

‘We share the view that in deciding the future of mining development in Bougainville, both customary landowners and the Bougainville people’s government—the ABG—have essential roles.

‘When considering any future mine, customary landowners must be recognised as the owners of the minerals.

Momis said this was a reversal of the position decided by the ABG last December, which determined the minerals would be jointly owned.

A revised draft Mining Act is expected to be available in Bougainville in the next few weeks.

10.07.2013

Source: Business Advantage PNG (BAPNG)

Momis wants to rush Rio Tinto back into Bougainville this year

Interview: 

John Momis, President, Autonomous Bougainville Government

Business Advantage

The President of Bougainville, John Momis, wants work on restarting the giant Panguna gold and copper mine to begin later this year. In this exclusive interview with Business Advantage PNG, he outlines the steps now needed to restart operations.

Business Advantage PNG (BAPNG): Why do Bougainvilleans now support re-opening the mine?

John Momis (JM): The Panguna Mine was the primary source of the war, which reduced Bougainville to basics. We need to deal with it because the Panguna Mine is a mega project. We need the revenue to be generated from it—revenue for the government as well as income for the people. So with the way things are going, we don’t have much option really.

We don’t have much money coming from the National Government in terms of its commitment to allocate adequate funding for reconstruction and for the big job of creating an autonomous government. I think, once the mine is open, Bougainville will be very well off, and we can manage to reconstruct Bougainville and promote sustainable businesses.

‘The former commander of the Bougainville Revolutionary Army, Sam Kauona, is now on side and in agreement with the need to re-open the mine.’

With the collaboration of credible partners from outside, the government itself will have enough money to create a new government. We also need money to create something that’s sustainable and in accordance with the principles of good governance and democracy.

BAPNG: Is there much opposition among local landowners and Bougainville people to the re-opening of the mine?

JM: There is a little bit of opposition but with clarification and with our efforts to create awareness, more and more people are in support: ex-combatants generally, the landowners themselves and the population in general. So, there is not much opposition. There is opposition from some quarters, and that is quite small, due to a lack of understanding.

The former commander of the Bougainville Revolutionary Army, Sam Kauona, is now on side and in agreement with the need to re-open the mine. He also agrees with the new mining law, which I expect the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) to pass by September this year.

BAPNG: The landowners’ umbrella group is seeking a payment of K10 billion (US$4.45 billion). How critical is that before any real work gets under way? Does it have to be in cash or could it be in some other form?

JM: No, it doesn’t have to be [in cash]. As a matter of fact, I am advocating that we should, without too much delay, start negotiations with Bougainville Copper Ltd (BCL) so that they can address some of the burning issues affecting the landowners whose land and whose lives have been detrimentally affected. But we can’t do that unless BCL are given some kind of guarantee that they will be allowed to operate. So, the sooner we negotiate with them, the better for us.

‘Well, people say that the lease has expired, but precedents have been set that say that once leases are expired they must be renewed to the same company, and that is BCL. So, that’s the assumption we’re working under.’

The K10 billion [that] people are talking about can be provided in different forms of development assistance to villagers to rebuild their villages and sort out some of the problems they’ve had as a result of the mine.

It’s not a question of paying K10 billion at one go.

BAPNG: Do you see BCL as the only viable company to re-open the mine itself, or do you see the possibility of another mining company competing for the rights?

JM: The landowners themselves want BCL. That’s their declared condition. I don’t necessarily believe BCL is the only one, but because they legally own the leases, we’ve got to start with them, and under our own law, BCL will have to meet our conditions. I have also mentioned to BCL that perhaps there is a place for a third party to be involved.

BAPNG: What role would they have?

JM: A third party may want to take up shares.

BAPNG: The landowners say that the mining lease for BCL to operate the mine has expired—Rio Tinto has told us that it’s still working on the assumption that the lease entitlement is still alive. What’s your understanding of the status of the original lease?

JM: Well, people say that the lease has expired, but precedents have been set that say that once leases are expired they must be renewed to the same company, and that is BCL. So, that’s the assumption we’re working under.

BAPNG: The landowners’ prerequisites for re-opening the mine indicate they want to actually own the mining lease and then sublease it to the mining company. Have we misinterpreted that, and is that viable anyway?

JM: That is an issue that has to be discussed between us [the ABG] and the [National] Government and the landowners. Under our new proposed mining law, the landowners own the resources. They have total ownership of the resources, but the government has the custodial role. Only the Government can issue licences, both at the exploration stage and development stage, and the Government is responsible for governance of benefits. The Government is [also] responsible for ensuring that environmental impact studies are conducted so that you know that there are no detrimental impacts on the environment and the life of the people. So, the issue of whether the people themselves will own the lease and negotiate is an issue that has not been discussed in full.

BAPNG:   What do you regard as critical in order to get the mine up and running again?

JM: Law and order and rule of law–that’s number one. That is why we’ve spent a lot of time holding forums to allow people to participate in discussions of important issues including law and order, ownership, distribution of benefits and, of course, environmental impacts on the land.

Getting all the different factions together—landowners, ex-combatants, other citizens of Bougainville and the government—is crucially important. Once we come to a consensus, then people will have a sense of ownership of the project, and this also extends to whichever mining company that finally agrees to participate under our conditions.

‘We have had positive discussions with executives from BCL, but we now have to sensitise Rio Tinto executives in London about the way in which we want to proceed.’

We’ve already started the initial discussions with BCL about some of the issues that must be resolved before they start their construction work. It has done a study of the order of magnitude that seems to be very attractive and confirms that currently the mine is a mega project.

BAPNG: BCL estimates it could take five years to rehabilitate the environment and conditions in order to actually get the mine operating again.  Do you see the length of time as a problem?

JM: For us, we need to start generating revenue as soon as possible. We have a time line—2015 and onwards is the ideal window. We have to conduct a referendum to determine our final political status. The historic moment of designing our future is imminent and we need money to achieve that. Procrastinating on opening the mine, even five years, is a bit far.  We must come to an agreement to allow BCL to come and set up their liaison office in Arawa to deal with some of the practical problems, which are not immense, which are not insurmountable, to enable BCL to start spending money on reconstruction work, and that will bring a lot of income to the people and revenue to the ABG, and I think that is what we need.

People, I think, misunderstand that you must wait for the production phase. Reconstruction is where companies spend a lot of money and that’s what we want.  We don’t want to procrastinate on that.

BAPNG: So would you like to see BCL physically return by the end of this year? Can you see it happening?

JM: That’s correct, yes. We will go for that. Of course, we have to take precautions. We have to do things right, and hence the lengthy period of consultation we’ve been having. That should iron out a lot of the problems and help us to come to a consensus to decide what to do.

We have had positive discussions with executives from BCL, but we now have to sensitise Rio Tinto executives in London about the way in which we want to proceed. So far, we have been successful in taking a consensual approach towards restarting the mine.

10.07.2013

Source: Radio New Zealand International

Bougainville plans for security units with ex-combatants

The autonomous Papua New Guinea province of Bougainville has revealed more details about its plans for a security unit using ex-combatants.

The idea for such a unit comes as the province continues to grapple with law and order issues.

The president, John Momis, told Don Wiseman the situation is getting better but more resources are needed.

JOHN MOMIS: We see a way forward. If only we had a bit of money to take some creative measures to promote law and order, a rule of law. And we are taking some measures such as forming a security company in partnership with a well-known Australian security company that provided security for the Sydney Olympic Games. And we want to absorb the e x-combatants, the ex-fighters, as well as young civilians, have them well trained. We are going to set up an academy here to train them well, according to Australian standards, to provide surveillance on the border between Bougainville and the Solomon Islands. And these security people would provide security for the mine when the mine reopens, as well as for ports, international airports, banks, so on and so forth. And also...

DON WISEMAN: Why don’t you just create more police?

JOHN MOMIS: The police is difficult because the training they get from Port Moresby is not suitable for the Bougainville situation. In fact, we are talking with the New Zealand and Australian governments to run horses for the police here on Bougainville. The other reason why we’re developing the security company is to absorb the ex-combatants, because when they’re running around loose sometimes they go and help the police. But they send expensive invoices to the government, which we cannot afford to pay on a sustainable basis. So we might as well form a company. And security companies throughout the world are being formed to supplement the work of the police. We don’t want to let the police down, of course, but it’s very expensive. Once you form the company, the security company, the company runs the thing. They no longer depend on us.

10.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Disaster is Everybody's Business says Minister

By Aloysius Laukai

The ABG minister for local Level Government and Communications, Joe Nopei say effective Disaster strategic Action Plan must be established to counter the effects of disasters that hits our region every day.

Speaking as the main speaker at the official opening ceremony,Mr. Nopei said that we must be prepared for any disaster that may occur in the future.

He said that there are two types of disasters that continue to pressure the office of the Disaster services and must be managed for the benefit of all citizens.

Mr.Nopei said that Bougainville was more vulnerable to both men made and natural disasters that continue to diminish our scarce resources.

The Minister also officially opened the meeting which ends this Friday.

Disaster is everybody's Business says Minister

10.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Siriosi on Disaster

By Aloysius Laukai

The ABG is yet to develop a policy on Disaster Management on Bougainville.

This was revealed by the CEO for Law and Justice and Deputy Administrator for Policy, Chris Siriosi in Buka this morning.

He made the remarks at the opening of the Disaster Management Committee orientation workshop in Buka this morning.

Mr .Siriosi said that the ABG must at one stage develop its own policy on Disaster Management and Relief Services to make sure the region is prepared for any emergency situations that may occur in the future.

He said that. bougainville is prone to major disasters like earthquakes,tsunamis and the rising sea level and needs to be prepared to address them through enacting of policies to handle this very important issue.

New Dawn Fm understands that one possible disaster that Buka faces is fire due to no Fire Service and the recent announcement to establish a Fire Brigade in Buka was fully welcomed by the people Bougainville.

Bougainville District Disaster Committee Orientation opening

10.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Disaster Orientation

By Aloysius Laukai

A three days Bougainville District Disaster Committee orientation Workshop was officially opened by the Minister for LLG and Communications, Joe Nopei at the Kuri village Resort this morning .

The acting CEO for LLG, Joe Logoso in his welcome and introductory remarks said that the issue on Disaster was an cross cutting issue and involves all communities.

He said that he hopes that this workshop will enable participants to understand and how they can assist people in an emergency situations.

He said that the disaster office will be directly under the office of the Deputy Administrator and no longer under the LLG office.

Mr Logoso says that involving the districts in which some are more vulnerable to or prone to disasters frequently.

He said involving the local experts in disaster situations was one way people can be assisted quickly and on time.

10.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

UNDP country rep David Mclahan Karr arriving in Buka this morning. 

10.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

UNDP

By Aloysius Laukai

UNDP country rep, David Mclahan Karr and UN Women rep Jeffrey Bucanan arrived in Buka this morning for two day visit to the region.

They were met by UN representatives and local media who had a press conference at the airport.

They told the reporters that they were to talk with ABG officials and all stakeholders of the Bougainville peace process.

They also have Peace building funds that PNG has been included for the first time to access.

These funds however will depend on ABG's requests and scope of work.

10.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

MP told to fund school fees 

By ROMULUS MASIU

MEMBER for South Bougainville in the National Parliament Steven Kamma Pirika has been asked to assist students at national tertiary institutions.

Member for Konnou, South Bougainville, in the Bougainville House of Representative Wilfred Komba made the call yesterday after noticing students leaving their institutions and returning back home to Bougainville because they could not settle outstanding school fees at their institutions.

Mr Komba said Mr Pirika who is also the Minister for Bougainville Affairs should step in and help students from his electorate to enable them to continue with their studies for this coming Semester.

The students who are attending universities, colleges, technical schools and vocational schools around the country won’t be going back to classes come next Semester unless they pay their outstanding fees.

“Other National Parliamentarians are paying out fees for students in their electorate or provinces, why not our MPs?” Mr Komba asked. "Bougainville leaders need to support our human resources who will help rebuild our island."

Students at one of the two universities in the country are paying annual boarding fees of K7740 for self-sponsored students while for HECAS students it is around K5000 plus another K1432 Tuition Fee for Day students. 

The amount is slightly lower at colleges, technical and other tertiary institutions. 

The current drop in prices of major cash crops is affecting people's ability to pay these fees.

Meanwhile, Bougainville students attending universities in the country are asking ABG and the four parliamentarians to pay outstanding fees for this coming semester.

"If the ABG can sponsor students to Philippines and other overseas institutions it should also help us because we are also the human resources who will go back and help rebuild Bougainville," students told Post Courier.

09.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

More Chinese arrive in Bougainville

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

THE Chinese businessman responsible for bringing the first group of Chinese to work in the lucrative scrap metal business in the former Panguna mining township in Central Bougainville has returned with the second group of Asians.

Managing Director of Wang Enterprises Limited, Zhen-Yu Wang or Bill Wang as he is commonly known, arrived with another 19 Chinese men in Buka on Friday.

Upon arrival on an Air Niugini flight from Port Moresby, the group was taken to the Buka police station where their travel documents were scanned before they were allowed to travel to Panguna.

According to Mr Wang, these second group of Chinese which included one translator, had traveled all the way from their country to work in the scrap metal business and nothing else. 

He said they came to Bougainville to help the people and not to make profits.

“We’ve come here not for money but to help the people. I wanted to help the people that’s why I brought them. We will be here for only six months then we will pack up and leave,” Mr Wang said.

“(But) my policy is for all people to benefit, and not just one person. If I see that only one person is benefiting then I will pack-up and leave,” added Mr Wang. 

Mr Wang said these men were brought in because they had the expertise to work in upper heights, a thing the locals are not capable of doing.

He said if the locals were familiar with heights than he would not have bothered bringing these Chinese to Bougainville. He however said they will be training the locals so upon completion of their six months stay, the locals would then be able to continue on with the scrap metal business. 

When asked if his company would be paying taxes to the ABG, Mr Wang said this will not be possible at the moment following all the recent treatments accorded to him and his men by the government.

Mr Wang however said any discussions concerning this issue should be addressed to the Me’ekamui Government of Unity as they are responsible for inviting him to do business in the Panguna area. Mr Wang also clarified misleading reports saying his company was mainly involved in construction projects and not mining, as thought by many. 

09.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

South Bougainvilleans urged to return 

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

A MEMBER in the Bougainville House of Representatives is calling on South Bougainvilleans living in the other provinces of the country to return home and contribute positively to developments in their areas.

South Bougainville former combatants’ representative Michael Laita said their contribution towards the region’s political, social and economic development is of paramount importance as Bougainville moves forward to its political destiny.

Mr Laita said those resourceful South Bougainvilleans should sacrifice their jobs and return and contribute meaningfully using their experience, knowledge and skills before the set referendum date for Bougainvilleans to decide their future. 

He said their contribution would be of great benefit so they should not become spectators and pretend to be non Bougainvilleans. 

“I am more than 100% sure that Bougainville will surely achieve her dream of being a separate independent nation and those Bougainvilleans who are living outside will become what we call free riders because they haven’t contributed towards our nation building,” Mr Laita said. 

“All of us who are living on the island now are sacrificing most of our time, money, energy and other valuable recourses to make Bougainville’s political dream come true, while those who are living outside have a carefree attitude towards their motherland,” added Mr Laita. Meanwhile, Mr Laita is commending all the South Bougainvilleans who are sacrificing their time, energy, resources and lives for the cause of Bougainville’s future.  

09.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Bougainville women must speak out 

By ROMULUS MASIU

BOUGAINVILLE women have been urged to speak out about their ordeals faced at home. 

They were told to come out and seek help by reporting to relevant authorities the actions of abusive husbands. 

"Do not hide your ordeals faced homes. Get help – that will save your life," is the message. 

South Bougainville Women Federation President Agnes Nara issued the challenge, calling on all women to come out and speak out on the abuse they face.

She called on communities to report to government authorities, to the police, to women leaders, to church leaders and youth groups, if they know of abusive husbands or fathers in their own communities.

Mrs Nara made the appeal after another woman lost her life to her abusive husband in Bana district of South Bougainville. “Women of Bougainville, please speak out about your ordeal at home so you’ll be free. Release yourself, don’t wait till after your death and we will know of your ordeals. Speak out.” Mrs Nara said the federation will bring to the attention of the authorities the disturbing level of domestic violence against women in remote communities in Bougainville. 

The Bana district administration and all stakeholders including communities, police, chiefs, youth and ex-combatants will be tasked by the women to take a stand and address the rising cases of violence against women which often results in death.

“Women are suffering in silence in their remote villages. Community members are very silent on the suffering of women. They think a man beating his wife is just a normal household thing – no, it’s against the law. Violence against women is against the law.”

Meanwhile, police in Arawa have apprehended the murder suspect and locked him up in the Arawa police cell awaiting trial and formal charges to be laid. 

Snr Sgt Herman Birengka said the National Government has already imposed the death penalty for PNG and he urged the Autonomous Bougainville Government to do likewise to protect its population. He said police in Bougainville are ready to carry out whatever the ABG sanction them to do as far as murder cases are concerned.  

09.07.2013

Source: Radio New Zealand International

Bougainville seeks NZ/Australian help to train its police

The autonomous Papua New Guinea province of Bougainville is considering approaching New Zealand and Australia to help with training its police.

Presently Bougainville’s police are trained by the PNG national constabulary but the Bougainville president, John Momis, says this training doesn’t meet the province’s needs.

Mr Momis revealed this when explaining his government’s plans to set up a private security firm to assist the police in maintaining law and order.

“The police is difficult because the training they get from Port Moresby is not suitable for the Bougainville situation. In fact we are talking with the New Zealand and Australia governments to run courses for the police here on Bougainville.”

John Momis.

New Zealand has for many years been helping Bougainville establish policing at the community level.

09.07.2013

Source: Radio New Zealand International

Bougainville aims to capture adventure travel market

The head of the Culture and Tourism division in the Autonomous Bougainville Government believes the Papua New Guinea province will become one of the must-see destinations for adventure travellers in the future.

It’s been 16 years since Bougainville came out of a civil war and the acting CEO of Culture and Tourism, Lawrence Belleh, says there’s still a lack of basic infrastructure.

But Mr Belleh says the industry is starting to focus on small-scale ecotourism ventures like caving and diving aimed at intrepid travellers.

He told Bridget Tunnicliffe that people with an interest in military history will also find something in Bougainville.

LAWRENCE BELLEH: The Numa Numa Track is a trail which was used by the allied forces and the Japanese during the war and it has a lot of war relics along the track. And we are also looking at ways of how we can get people to come back to Bougainville to see what their relatives during the war have been through. We had Japanese bunkers and a lot of war relics that are still on ground that we are developing. But with our services coming back to Bougainville and business activities coming back, there are so many things that are now being done to try and set up institutions to support arts and culture. We are intending to do three cultural centres in the three regions and we are also looking at two tourism bureaus.

BRIDGET TUNNICLIFFE: Are you expecting or have you already received government funding to be able to put these ideas in place?

LAWRENCE BELLEH: Not at this point in time. We only have a recurrent which the government has given us of $70,000. But hopefully in 2014 let’s hope that the autonomous government will rescue us and help us out, so that we can do more.

BRIDGET TUNNICLIFFE: What kind of travellers are you trying to attract?

LAWRENCE BELLEH: Going to the places where transport is quite difficult here in the autonomous region, especially with coming out again from the 10-year conflict that we’ve had. So the target group of people will be the ones that are young, they are fit. Because in Bougainville, the tourism here is still raw, especially with the environment. Much of the environment is still in place. We are looking at looking at marketing Bougainville as a raw ecotourism type of destination. The political environment in Bougainville is conditioned to make people come into the region. It’s the media, a lot of times, that’s disturbing the situation here in Bougainville, whereby people are saying that we’re still fighting and so on. But, you know, we have come out of that, and I think Papua New Guinea Bougainville is one of the best destinations. The law and order situation is quite good.

BRIDGET TUNNICLIFFE: Do you think there is huge potential there for tourism to become an industry in Bougainville?

LAWRENCE BELLEH: The rawness here, in terms of the tourism potential that we have is massive. I know that Bougainville is one of the destinations that people will be looking for in the near future, and starting now we can develop the industry and make sure it’s one of the biggest in Papua New Guinea.

08.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

LAUTA THANKS NAKIN

By Aloysius Laukai

The Member for North Bougainville, LAUTA ATOI today thanked the election petitioner, WILLIAM NAKIN for deciding to withdraw the case against him this afternoon.

Speaking to New Dawn FM after the National Court sitting in Buka this afternoon, MR. ATOI said that with the election petition out of the way he was now more relieved to sit down and serve the people of North Bougainville.

He said that it was good that MR. NAKIN and his team had weighed all consequences and made the decision to withdraw the case.

On his switching from the Opposition camp to Government, MR. ATOI told New Dawn FM that he never resigned from the PNG Party of which he is a financial member.

He said that he had to switch to Prime Minister O’Neil’s Party because he wanted to serve his people by remaining with the government and also the ruling party.

William Nakin and Lauta Atoi with lawyers pose for this AL pic

08.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

BOUGAINVILLE ELECTION PETITION WITHDRAWN

By Aloysius Laukai

The trial resulting from the 2012 National Elections Court of Disputed Returns between the sitting member, LAUTA ATOI and runner up in the June 2012 Election and Buka Businessman, WILLIAM NAKIN was finally withdrawn by the petitioner, MR. WILLIAM NAKIN through his lawyer in the National Court in Buka this afternoon.

Presiding Judge JUSTICE KIRIWOM in handing down his decision after receiving the affidavits for the withdrawal from MR. NAKIN’s lawyer and also from the Lawyer representing, LAUTA ATOI and Electoral Commission told the packed Buka Court room that the withdrawal has saved time and money that the Court could have spent if it proceeded with the case.

He said according to the affidavits of the petitioner, they have withdrawn the case in the best interest of the people of North Bougainville who could have missed out on services if the case was to have dragged on and on.

Justice Kiriwom also said that in similar situations the issue of costs arises however in this case the petitioner has also agreed to meet the cost from funds already deposited to the registrar of courts at the time the case was registered.

He said based on these affidavits, leave has been granted and the petition is withdrawn.

08.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

UNDP TO PRESENT FUNDS

By Aloysius Laukai

UNDP Papua New Guinea Country Cordinator, DAVID MCLAHAN KARR will present funds for Peace Building on Bougainville to the ABG President, DR. JOHN MOMIS tomorrow.

In several interviews with DR. JOHN MOMIS, the ABG President said that these Peace building funds were needed to fast track Peace building efforts on Bougainville which the ABG was not allowed to carry out under the ONE HUNDRED MILLION KINA allocated by the National Government to Bougainville.

The ABG president said that Bougainville needed funds to be under its control so that they can prioritize according to the needs on Bougainville and these UNDP funds will definitely create the much needed peace and reconciliation ceremonies still outstanding.

DR. MOMIS recently announced that under the ONE HUNDRED MILLION KINA allocated by the Papua New Guinea National Government, Peace Building work is not a priority although ABG needs to build the peace and reconciliations will create a lasting peace on the island.

He said that the NATIONAL GOVERNMENT wants the ONE HUNDRED MILLION KINA spent on High Impact Projects and they have highlighted ROADS AND BRIDGES as their High Impact Projects.

08.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

BOUGAINVILLE SOCCER FEDERATION PRESIDENT UPDATE

By Aloysius Laukai

The President of the Bougainville Soccer Federation, JOSEPH MAINEKE today said that Bougainville could market Soccer players to the world if the proposed Soccer academy on Bougainville becomes a reality.

He told New Dawn FM this afternoon that the Soccer Academy has the blessings of the PNG Soccer Federation and FIFA and Bougainville is privileged to establish the academy on Bougainville.

MR. MAINEKE fell short in announcing the cost of the facility but said that the academy will be used for other sports training programs as it will have Conference and other facilities that other codes can use.

MR. MAINEKE who recently returned from a WORLD FIFA meeting in South Africa said that he was happy the Regional Member for Bougainville and the ABG Community Development Minister, MELCHIOR DARE were fully behind the project.

08.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Gender based violence must be addressed

By Tapo Tovilu

Bougainville must develop and help build the community first before it looks at referendum.

Gender biased violence is a common cause of the admit ions of nearly all cases of mother and child injuries in hospitals.

Sr Essa Banabas from the Family Support Center in the Buka General Hospital confirmed today in an interview that statistics have confirmed that gender based violence is on the increase in Bougainville.

She says that in regard to Gender based violence, there are a lot of problems within the family which in turn will affect the community putting a question mark on referendum.

Sr Banabas added that our community first must have true peace and harmony in order for us to also develop well as a country.

She added that we as Bougainvilleans must help each and every person build him to become a good person both physically and mentally.

She also added that a lot have still in the community prost traumatic stress disorder and are affecting many.

Banabas appealed to the ABG to help the people first before they can look into moving into referendum on independence.

08.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Autonomy awareness important

By Tapo Tovilu

As Bougainville nears the set dates for its referendum and its preparations for independence it is a priority and a must that all Bougainvilleans must know and understand the Bougainville Peace Agreement.

These were comments made by Paul Kebori CEO of the Division of Autonomy in the ABG yesterday during the home guards awareness in Buka town.

He says that it is important that the population of Bougainville know what is in the Bougainville Peace Agreement.

He added that currently only very few truly know what is contained within our Bougainville Peace Agreement creating an understanding gap.

He also revealed that his division through the ABG will be carrying out a number of awareness on the BPA aiming at covering all areas in Bougainville.

Mr Kebori added that it is the ABG’s concern and responsibility that all people in Bougainville are educated on our Peace Agreement, its contents and what role it will play in the referendum process of Bougainville.

08.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Road works a relief

By Tapo Tovilu

The announcement of the first part of the sealing of the Bougainville highway from Kokopau to Siara has come as a relief for many in the area.

Sheila Fareng a village leader in the area says that with the news of the proposed sealing many people in the Selau area have welcomed the development.

She says that it has been a while now since talk of sealing their parts of the highway and with the announcement many will now enjoy bitumen roads.

Currently with the preparation work the road is very dusty she added and people in the area suffering from the dust caused by heavy machinery are anxious for the dust to setal.

Mrs. Fareng has thanked relevant authorities for the achievement adding that the people of Selau have welcomed the development.

08.07.2013

Source: EMTV

Momis appeals for Unity in Panguna Mine Talks

President of the Autonomous region of Bougainville Chief John Momis has appealed for total Unity and positive attitudes in the wake of negations to re-open the Panguna Mine.

He made the call during the Regional Forum on Panguna Negotiations in Arawa and the Bana District.

The forums enabled consultation to be facilitated between landowners of the Panguna Mine, community leaders, ex combatants, churches, youth and women’ s groups. 

Also present at the forums were members of the Bougainville Executive Council and the Bougainville Administration led by Autonomous Region of Bougainville President Chief John Momis.

The process of developing a mining law for Bougainville which gives ownership rights to the landowners and custodianship to the ABG is in progress.

It will be presented on the Bougainville floor of Parliament once community consultation is completed.

The last forum will be held in Panguna soon.

The Panguna Mine, created history for Papua New Guinea and Bougainville, has remained closed since 1989.

ABG Mining Law on environment

The Bougainville Mining Minister Michael Oni says, agreements the Bougainville Copper Limited operated under, did not give any considerations for the Panguna Mine affected communities.

Speaking at the Panguna negotiations forum, the Minister said the new Bougainville Mining Law will address environmental issues.

Meanwhile, the law reform commission says Papua New Guinea has no law on the disposal of mine tailings except guidelines.

Negotiations to re-open Panguna Mine

08.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Woman killed in Bougainville

By ROMULUS MASIU

VIOLENCE against women has reared its ugly head again in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

This time it occured at Watoro Village in Lato Constituency of Bana District in South Bougainville, where a mother of four children was bashed to death by her husband. 

The woman died on Thursday at around 5am.

This is the second killing of a woman in the same Lato Constituency of Bana District. The first was the cutting of late Helen Rumbali’s throat after being suspected of sorcery early this year.

While condemning the killing, President of the South Bougainville Women Federation Agnes Nara yesterday told Post-Courier that the victim, Gertrude, had been living in a violent home with her abusive husband ever since they got married. She had been keeping this a secret until her death last week. 

For 20 or so years Gertrude had been humiliated, bashed and tortured by her husband. Her four children were raised in a violent home. Her two eldest daughters are teachers. 

Gertrude could not speak out or tell anyone as her husband had continuously threatened to kill her if she did.

On Wednesday, Gertrude went to market produce at the junction of Bana High School and saw that her husband was not happy after she came to the market. She arrived home and the beating started from Wednesday afternoon, continuing into Thursday morning when her dead body was discovered by her sister.

During the beating, her husband blocked off all entry into their home so nobody could interfere. Villagers could not interfere or help as they were afraid of the violent husband.

Trying his best to cover up his murder, the abusive husband told the villagers that Gertrude had committed suicide. The villagers did not buy his story. 

He is now in police custody in Arawa.

Mrs Nara and the women of Lato and Bolave constituencies in the Bana districts are fed up with such violence against women in their area. 

Yesterday after Church Service they took to the main road from Takemari Village and conducted a protest march with banners and placards to Watoro Village – late Gertrude’s home. 

08.07.2013

Source: Radio New Zealand International

PNG’s Bougainville positions for eco-tourism

The head of the Culture and Tourism division in the Autonomous Bougainville Government believes there’s huge potential for eco-tourism to take off in the Papua New Guinea province.

16 years ago when Bougainville came out of a civil war, tourism was seen as a key part of its future, but the acting CEO of Culture and Tourism, Lawrence Belleh, says there’s still a lack of basic infrastructure to support the industry.

As a result, Mr Belleh says the focus now is on small-scale ecotourism ventures like caving and diving aimed at intrepid travellers.

“The tourism here is still raw especially with the environment, much of the environment is still in place. We’re looking at making and marketing Bougainville as a raw eco-tourism type of destination.”

Lawrence Belleh says a new website will be launched soon, that will act as a one-stop shop for people wanting to know what’s on offer in Bougainville.

05.07.2013

Source: PNG Business News

Sturm confirms lobbying effort 

by Blair Price

CLAIMS that Panguna Mine Affected Landowners Association chairman Lawrence Daveona received lobbying funds from the European Shareholders of Bougainville Copper were confirmed by its president Axel Sturm.

The PNG Exposed blog displayed banking documents as its evidence. However, Sturm did not have any major issues with the report or with the practice of lobbying. 

He told PNGIndustryNews.net that Daveona might have received a total of 4000 euros ($A5710) over various payments and in exchange, ESBC received “some information” that was more difficult to gain access to at the time. 

Sturm said ESBC stopped supporting Daveona about 18 months ago. The ESBC president was also surprised that Daveona later ended up as chairman of the PMALA. 

Comments on the blog by a “Lawrence Daveona” suggest the PMALA chairman did not know the source of the banking documents and Sturm was mystified at how they were obtained. 

In terms of the growing movement to re-open the giant Panguna copper-gold mine on Bougainville Island, Sturm wants to see more done to advance the process as opposed to more “toktoks” and reviews among landowner communities and other stakeholders. 

As for the recent US Supreme Court decision to dismiss a 13-year human rights lawsuit against Rio Tinto over its past operation of Panguna, Sturm wasn’t surprised the judges did not want to be occupied with such matters all around the world.

He viewed the case as a failed attempt to get money from Rio through the “back door” and mainly for the commissions of the prosecuting lawyers involved. 

The key challenge to re-opening Panguna is gathering enough landowner support. 

There were around 600 landowners or landowner representatives of the 1980 compensation agreement for the mine – providing plenty of scope for differences of opinion.

Mining laws for the Autonomous Bougainville Government and amendments to the Papua New Guinea government’s Bougainville Copper Act are also necessary. 

Panguna was the world’s fourth-largest copper mine in the months before it closed in 1989 and had produced 9 million ounces of gold and 3 million tonnes of copper from 1972.

Rio Tinto owns around 54% of Bougainville Copper. 

05.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

New ‘Bougainville Today’ for Post-Courier

THE Post-Courier will from next Monday dedicate a page to stories from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville as the countdown begins to referendum.

The Bougainville Today page will be published in the Monday to Thursday editions of the newspaper and be a feature in the Papua New Guinea Weekend magazine, which comes out every Friday as part of the main paper.

Announcing the new addition to the newspaper’s pages, Post-Courier Editor Alexander Rheeney said Bougainvilleans within and outside the AROB needed to be kept informed on developments within the region as the peace process picked up pace with the referendum just around the corner.

“It would be a critical time for Bougainvilleans with the preparatory work to hold a referendum in the autonomous region already getting underway on Bougainville and in the PNG National Government. The Post-Courier as a responsible member of the media industry is keen to participate in the process hence our decision to create this special page in the newspaper for the benefit of Bougainvilleans,” he said.

Bougainville bureau chief David Lornie echoed similar sentiments, saying the newspaper’s commitment was epitomized in the recent commissioning of two offices, one of them in the former mining township of Arawa in central Bougainville.

“Post-Courier has recently opened two new offices in Bougainville as part of our ongoing commitment to the future of Bougainville and the region’s peace process. The establishment of a daily Bougainville Today page in the nation’s leading daily further cements our commitment to Bougainville. We are proud to be a committed part of our region’s development,” said Mr Lornie.

The newspaper and the AROB have a long history as the Post-Courier was the first media newspaper to open an office in Buka following the signing of the Bougainville Peace Agreement in 2001. 

05.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Govt owes ABG K200m

By ROMULUS MASIU

THE National Government of Papua New Guinea owes the people of Bougainville K200 million in restoration and development grants as agreed under the Bougainville Peace Agreement (BPA).

An angry Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) Minister for Finance Albert Punghau blasted National Government saying that by law ABG could take the National Government to court and had assured the people of Bougainville that ABG would just do that – it would take the National Government to court over the issue.

“I’ve already spoken to President Chief Dr John Momis and we will definitely take them to court. Even though we have signed the BPA in good faith, we signed for the referendum, we signed for restoration development grant and we signed for the other monies and the National Government is continuously and purposely delaying our money till today. You can know the politics of this thing, the ‘Cold War’ is still on, you have to be mindful and make the crucial decision and we open the Panguna Mine and have our own money,” Mr Punghau reminded the people of Bougainville last week in Arawa. 

The financial arrangement under the BPA stipulates that the PNG Government has to provide grants to the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG). One such grant is the Restoration and Development Grants. The grant was introduced in 2005, with the first Bougainville House of Representatives getting K10 million. From then on the grant accumulated to K12 million and then to K15 million.

When the second Bougainville House of Representatives took office the figure is still locked up at K15 million till today. However, Mr Punghau highlighted that according to the formula of the BPA, this money K15 million must increase prorate as per increases of the public investment of PNG. To date this is not happening totaling to K188 million owed to Bougainville. 

This is just one example of the National Government’s uninspiring support and delay tactic that has prompted Momis-Nisira led government to set its sight on the re-opening of the Panguna Mine to re-build its economy and gain independence from PNG. 

“If the mine is re-opened Bougainville will be one of the richest places on earth with its 300,000 benefiting from billions from the copper-gold deposits at the Panguna pit,” Minister Punghau said, adding that the responsibility of ABG was to provide goods and services to its population, but it could not do that due to lack of funds. 

The other grants for Bougainville withheld in Waigani are the Recurrent Grant - which now stands at K70 million and the high impact project grant. The Government agreed to give K500 milion over five years. It only gave K100 million in 2012 . 

05.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Bougainville gets new top cop

By ROMULUS MASIU

CENTRAL Bougainville Police have a new commander. 

He is Inspector Januarius Vosivai who took over from hardworking acting Central Region Commander Herman Birengka this week.

Senior Sergeant Birengka formally welcomed inspector Vosivai and also handed over control of the Central Region to Inspector Vosivai.

Inspector Vosivai – a local from Tinputz - had commenced duty as the Regional Commander earlier in June but had delayed the formal handover ceremony due to Snr Sgt Birengka’s immediate involvement in the investigation of Chinese workers in Panguna - that is still ongoing.

Inspector Vosivai stated that maintaining law and order in the region was his number one priority, which meant that delaying other formal processes was simply unavoidable at the time, as public safety came first.

The ceremony included handing over the official cane by Snr Sgt Birengka to Inspector Vosivai to signify the handing over of the authority, inspection of the parade and the signing of the handover document. 

Snr Sgt Birengka then addressed the parade and thanked members for their hardwork and support during his time as the Acting Regional Commander. Other speakers included the Regional Commissioner, James Koibo, Senior Inspector Cletus Tsien. The ceremony concluded with Inspector Vosivai addressing the parade. 

05.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

AROB health gets boost

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

HEALTH service delivery in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville has received a boost with the opening of four community-level health projects.

The projects were jointly carried out by PNG Sustainable Development Program Ltd and the Catholic and United churches.

These projects include an outpatient clinic at Manetai sub-health centre in the Keita District of Central Bougainville, and staff houses at Kekesu and Tearouki health centres in the Tinputz District of North Bougainville and Katukuh sub-health centre in the Siwai District of South Bougainville.

The Manetai outpatient clinic was built as a combined effort between PNGSDP and the Catholic Diocese of Bougainville.

“This clinic, and others throughout the country that PNGSDP has funded, are at the front line of the battle to improve the health of people in rural areas,” PNGSDP chief executive David Sode said.

“I believe the new outpatient clinic will play an important role at the Manetai Sub-Health Centre by allowing trained staff there to do their work properly, with appropriate medicines and equipment,” added Mr Sode. 

PNGSDP funded the construction of the ward with a grant of K132,000 while the Catholic Church and the local community chipped in with project management, transport and logistics, plant and equipment, labor and some materials.

The staff houses at Kekesu, Tearouki and Katukuh have been funded by PNGSDP in response to accommodation shortages, which are a major problem for hospitals, clinics and health centres throughout the country.

“Having good accommodation is a big benefit for all communities,” Mr Sode said.

“It means they can attract and retain the best possible staff, workers give their best, and ultimately the delivery of health services is improved.

“Everyone is a winner — most importantly the thousands of people who rely on health centres like these.”

PNGSDP contributed K284,709 to the three projects and associated works, and the churches and the local community raised their own funds to provide project management, transport, equipment, labor and some materials to successfully complete these projects.

05.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Health facility falling to bits 

By ROMULUS MASIU

TURIBOIRU Health Centre (pictured) is struggling to provide much needed health services to the people of Buin and South Bougainville as a whole.

The health facility, run by the Catholic church, is one of the 170 looked after by churches. It was built in the1960s and is now ready to collapse to the ground at any time. The building is rotten with termites and weather is taking its toll on the colonial building.

As veteran nursing staff of the facility Henrietta Vinoko puts it in her own words, “Our health centre is run down.”

She was doing her elementary when white missionaries built the facility. She recalled carrying stones to set the foundation of this facility. Mrs Vinoko is assisted by Dorothy Momoi, Angela Pinoko and Theresa Toumo. 

The four staff are working around the clock to treat a population of 7,880 – most of them residing in the rural areas of the Lule and Baubake constituencies. 

The existing facility was built when the population was still low. Now it’s a different story. The staff are over-worked and they need six more staff to tackle the increasing sick population. At the moment the four staff work on a non-stop eight hourly rotation every day.

The run down maternity ward sees 20 to 30 babies born each month.

This church health facility needs a complete overhaul with new equipment altogether. There is a need for a separate ward for HIV, TB and STIs – which means more space is urgently needed.

The sad state of Turiboiru Health Centre spoke of many similar hardships faced by most health facilities throughout Bougainville. Most have closed their doors because they can’t go any further with the lack of manpower, resources or logistics, run down health buildings with inadequate spacing, or a lack of funding. The list goes on.

A bright note for health centres, sub-health centres and aid posts in South Bougainville especially Buin District is that the non government organisation Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) have boosted the supply of medical drugs to sustain the ever increasing number of patients to these health facilities. Only time will tell who will help restore these run down health facilities. For Mrs Vinoko and her hardworking colleagues throughout Bougainville, saving lives is of paramount importance no matter what obstacles that may come about.

05.07.2013

Source: The National

Atoi returns to PNC 

NORTH Bougainville MP Lauta Atoi (pictured) has returned to People’s National Congress party and the government ranks.

He said it was the right thing to do for his people, who elected him on a PNC party ticket and wanted to see him working closely with Prime Minister Peter O’Neill to address pressing issues concerning the people of North Bougainville.

“In the time I spent with the opposition, I have observed the work of my party leader, the prime minister and I am very impressed,” he said.

“He is an intelligent and hardworking man who is committed to changing our country through the implementation of the policies of the party and government.” 

Atoi voted for the prime minister and supported a number of legislations introduced by the government from the opposition bench.

He attended the PNC convention in Lae last week.

O’Neill welcomed his decision, saying: “Lauta Atoi never left the party. 

“He was always a part of the PNC family. 

“He was just sitting in the wrong place.

“Now that he is back, we will focus on some of the challenging issues his people elected him to Parliament to address,” he said

05.07.2013

Source: The National

Health service delivery get boost 

HEALTH service delivery on Bougainville has received a boost with the opening of four community-level projects carried out by the PNG Sustainable Development Program Ltd (PNGSDP) and the Catholic and United churches.

The projects are an outpatient clinic at Manetai, Keita district and staff houses at Kekesu and Tearouki, near Tinputz and Katukah, in Siwai district.

Manetai people now have a modern, healthy and comfortable outpatient clinic at their sub-health centre.

The clinic was built by a combined effort between the PNGSDP and the Catholic diocese of Bougainville.

“This clinic, and others throughout the country that PNGSDP has funded, are at the front line of the battle to improve the health of people in rural areas,” PNGSDP chief executive David Sode said.

“Papua New Guinea has a long way to go to lift the standard of our health services, and PNGSDP is pleased to do what it can to help service providers such as churches and other NGOs.

“I believe the new outpatient clinic will play an important role at the Manetai sub-health centre by allowing the trained staff there to do their work properly, with appropriate medicines and equipment.”

05.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Chinese shop robbery probed

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

POLICE are investigating a break and entering incident which took place on one of the Chinese owned shops in Buka town on Monday night.

According to Supt Paul Kamuai from the Bougainville Police Service, more than K20,000 worth of goods were stolen. 

While airing his concern yesterday, deputy commander Supt Kamuai said Bougainvilleans should not see Chinese or other Asians operating their businesses in Buka town as an easy target to carryout their illegal plans.

“Don’t think that because he is a Chinese I can break and enter into his business, no this is not right. You do not have the right to break and enter their business,” Mr Kamuai said. 

Supt Kamuai said police regarded this incident as an ordinary break and entering case and would endeavour to bring those involved to justice.

Supt Kamuai is also appealing to those with information concerning this incident to come forward and assist police in capturing those responsible.

Mr Kamuai is now calling on Bougainvilleans who have any grievances against these Chinese to report their concerns to the police, instead of resorting to illegal practices.

“If you take the law into your own hands, the police will step in. We will not tolerate this and the police don’t want this to happen. The police want us to work in partnership to ensure that they comply with the law,” added Mr Kamuai.

Mr Kamuai said he does not want to see the things done to Asians in other parts of PNG copied by Bougainvilleans.

He added that some of the Chinese that are operating their businesses in town are operating on a partnership arrangement with the locals and so such illegal activities towards their businesses should be discouraged.

This is not the first time a Chinese-owned shop in Buka has been robbed. Nearly every week there is a case of criminals breaking into their stores and stealing goods. It is also now evident that most of these Asian shops have already fallen victims to similar cases.

04.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Taxpayers pay up 

By ROMULUS MASIU

 FINANCE Minister Albert Punghau (pictured) has challenged all businesses in Bougainville to pay tax to the Autonomous Bougainville Government.

“If you’re not paying tax then you’re definitely not helping the cause of Bougainville to prosper.”

“These drunkards and people who smoke are the ones paying tax to the Government because they buy beer and cigarettes and tobacco and these monies go the Government’s safe.”

The other tax ABG is getting at the moment is tax from public servants working in Bougainville like teachers, nurses, Government workers and so on. This is called group tax.

 Mr Punghau explained that the money raised from taxes in Bougainville was collected and sent to Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) in Port Moresby.

 He added that what the IRC did was hold on to 70 per cent of the total tax collected and send back 30 per cent to Bougainville for the ABG to use as its internal revenue.

“And you know what the IRC does not send back that 30 per cent tax on time.” Mr Punghau said that a fortnight ago Members of the House of Representatives have had an audience with the Commissioner for the IRC and bluntly told him that he was totally irresponsible. They questioned why he was holding onto the money of the people of Bougainville, which they sweat for.

“You’re suffocating the people of Bougainville by your actions,” Mr Punghau said to the commissioner and his officers.

 To date the IRC owes the ABG more than K9 million: some of the money is from the group taxes of the risk allowance payouts which the public servants received this year. “This money too should come to the people of Bougainville, but no, the IRC is still holding onto it as if it is their money ... they haven’t released it yet. See I am giving you the clear picture now, and I now want to put out the challenge to you. The IRC won’t even help us. That is why I want to challenge you especially the business houses in Arawa, Buin and Buka, please pay up your tax to the ABG because at the end of the day internal revenue is very important.” According to Mr Punghau, Bougainville’s internal revenue was based on the Bougainville Peace Agreement, under what was called Fiscal Self-Reliance.

 In a clause of the financial arrangement it stipulates that Bougainville will reach fiscal self-reliance after its internal revenue meets the recurrent cost the Government of PNG is giving to Bougainville. 

“For example; the Government of PNG is giving Bougainville K70 million as recurrent cost. Internal revenue is K9 million, you subtract K9 million from K70 million, and you have a fiscal gap of K61 million. Bougainville must raise that K61 million here as internal revenue to say, yes we are now self-reliant to be...”

04.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Dancing in the rain

Words and picture:  ROMULUS MASIU.

03.07.2013

Source: ESBC

BOC SHARES TO RISE MORE THAN 1000 PERCENT SOON!

The European Shareholders of Bougainville Copper Limited (ESBC) upgraded the realistic minimum value of BOC shares from AUD 3.20 to AUD 4.50. "The actual Sydney shareprice of AUD 0.40 is simply a bad joke," says ESBC president Axel G. Sturm in Lisbon (Portugal), "It is caused by some aggressive naked short selling campaign originated in Switzerland. This has nothing to do with reality! It has to be considered as an invitation to all investors to STRONGLY BUY BOC shares now! All investors who are interested to make a good deal during the next 12 months should buy BOC shares (Frankfurt: BOU1)  immediately. During the last weeks we saw very positive development towards mining on the island of Bougainville. Never before BCL has been as near to resume mining on Bougainville as today! Furthermore: There is no threat anymore from the so called California Court Case!"

03.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Sarei upset

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

A SENIOR Bougainvillean statesman, who has been backing the Bougainville lawsuit case against mining giant Rio Tinto, has expressed his disgust over last week’s dismissal of the case by the Ninth US Circuit Court of Appeal.

The case in question Sarei v Rio Tinto had been ongoing since September 2000. It alleged Rio Tinto was culpable for war crimes as a result of the 10-year Bougainville secessionist war, sparked by the giant Panguna Copper mine in Central Bougainville. 

The mine was operated by Rio Tinto’s subsidiary Bougainville Copper Limited. 

He revealed he was always unhappy with the way the case has been handled, starting from the first hearing dates. 

“I am not happy about this. I had told the lawyers, Paul Stocker and his bunch of lawyers that I was not happy with the way things were going,” Dr Sarei said.

Dr Sarei who was the former Premier of the then North Solomon Provincial Government has always been very vocal that Rio Tinto’s lawyers consistently told ‘a pack of lies’ while defending the company.

He said as the premier during those early days, he believed all the activities that were taking place concerning the operations of the Panguna mine were illegal. 

The former PNG diplomat only knew about the US court’s dismissal of the case when this reporter approached him at his Gagan village in the Peit constituency area on Monday. 

“I was surprised the lawyers did not contact me earlier. I heard they wanted to open the case but nothing more. I was supposed to be the first to know but I was not informed. Thanks for updating me. I don’t know the details now. I was waiting, I was hoping Stocker would come and tell me,” Dr Sarei said.

Dr Sarei however said if Mr Stocker had turned up at his village, he would have hit him with his walking stick before telling him to get out of Bougainville.

This is all because he was not happy with the outcome of this court case.

Dr Sarei, who was also the ABG member for Peit constituency in Buka until he was dismissed recently for failing to attend three consecutive meetings, said he will be taking every opportunity in ensuring that this case is brought to court again.

He said his first move now is to re-contest the vacant Peit constituency seat in the ABG Parliament. 

“My dictionary doesn’t have the word give-up. When I start something I like to finish it.

“I will still fight for it. I’ll contest again and if I win I will make sure that this case continues. I like to see this court case work,” he added.

Dr Sarei boldly said he has been pushing this case not to get credit but because “I love my people”. 

He also revealed that he has been telling ABG President John Momis to support the case, but only to be told by Dr Momis that he does not want to be part of this case.

“I wrote something for President Momis to sign and send, but then he said to me: ‘No, I don’t want to be part of this. I’m going to start my own’.

03.07.2013

Source. Radio New Zealand International

BCL to buy local in Bougainville mine relaunch, says Momis

The autonomous government in the Papua New Guinea province of Bougainville says it will require a rejuvenated Bougainville Copper Ltd to source most of its basic supplies from within the province.

There are increasing expectations that the huge mine, which has been shut down for 24 years, will re-open.

A series of fora have mostly backed the re-opening and the Autonomous Bougainville Government president John Momis says he hopes they can begin negotiations with BCL before the end of the year.

He wants the re-construction happening quickly to stimulate job growth and boost the economy.

Mr Momis says they expect this building phase would foster subsidiary industries, including farming.

“Because once the mine starts this time around we are not going to allow BCL to import everything from outside. They will have to buy our beautiful fruits, pineapples, fish, chickens - we will have piggery farms and so on and so forth. But that needs a bit of funding and technology to get the people to be professionally prepared.”

The president of the Autonomous Bougainville Government, John Momis

03.07.2013

Source. Radio New Zealand International

Bougainville contemplates suing PNG national government

The president of the autonomous Papua New Guinea province of Bougainville, John Momis, says his government is considering suing the national government for what he says is its failure to meet the terms of the Peace Agreement.

He says the lack of money is stalling preparations for the referendum on possible independence, which is a key part of the Bougainville Peace Agreement.

That vote is likely in 2016 and Mr Momis told Don Wiseman Bougainvilleans need to be more self reliant or seek financial help elsewhere if the national government does not meet its commitments.

JOHN MOMIS: The people of Bougainville must realise that that event, that important political moment in the history of Bougainville is quite imminent. As a matter of fact, next year the ABG, their own house of representatives, will determine the actual date of the referendum. So whilst we’re experiencing a lot of problems in respect to assistance from the national government, we need to get ourselves organised and be more self-reliant, even in terms of sourcing funds from outside. Because we are not having a very successful engagement with the national government. They seem to be having no qualms or conscience and consistently breaching the Bougainville Peace Agreement. So the only way to motivate our people is to say, look, we have to be ready. It’s like saying the grand final date is on, and, whether we are ready or not, we have to play in the grand final. We made the commitment so we better get ourselves organised.

DON WISEMAN: When you say that the national government is breaching the peace agreement, there was a lot of good feeling toward the end of last year and the government came through with those very large commitments they had made. So are you suggesting there’s been a backtracking since then?

JOHN MOMIS: There’s been quite a bit of backtracking, yes. Even last year the $100 million the government promised only came to us in November towards the end of the year. It doesn’t give us much time to implement, especially when the Bougainville administration doesn’t have the capacity. And this year, we haven’t go this year’s allocation yet. And the restoration and development grant, which is stipulated in the Bougainville Peace Agreement, which is sub-constitutionally guaranteeing the allocation of funds which should be given to us every year - they have been under paying us deliberately. We worked out that, in fact, the national government owes us something like approximately $188 million. That is the only guaranteed funding to Bougainville. They’ve been severely underpaying us.

DON WISEMAN: And that’s separate from the commitment of 500 million kina that was made?

JOHN MOMIS: Yes, 500 million for the next five years - that’s a political commitment the national government made. Whereas the restoration and development grant is constitutionally stipulated. The national government has no choice but to give it. In fact, we are seriously thinking of taking them to court for such a massive breach, which creates a lot of doubt in the minds of Bougainvilleans about the national government’s goodwill.

03.07.2013

Source: PNG Industry News

Bougainville lawsuit dismissed 

LAST week a 13-year-long human rights lawsuit against Rio Tinto’s past operation of the Panguna mine on Bougainville Island was dismissed in a US Supreme Court decision.

According to Reuters the 11-judge panel used its precedent from dismissing a case against Royal Dutch Petroleum Company in April. 

In this ruling the court interpreted that the Alien Tort Statute (enacted in 1789) was only relevant when violations concerned US territory with “sufficient force”. 

Around 10,000 Bougainville residents were involved with the lawsuit against Rio. 

The original lawsuit filed in 2000 alleged the company was involved in destroying villages, razing the rain forest and slicing off a hillside to establish the Panguna open pit mine, in operation between 1972 and 1989.

The lawsuit argued that riverine tailings allegedly destroyed fish stocks and caused locals to have severe medical complications.

The lawsuit also claimed Rio helped the Papua New Guinea government transport troops to the island to curb protests against the mine, which led to an uprising and years of subsequent civil war.

Meanwhile, there is growing support on the island to reopen the Panguna mine to revive the local economy. 

03.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Pictures from today's meeting, ABG President Far Left and ABG Minister for Public Service, JOEL BANAM, Chris Siriosi ABG's Legal Officer, Raymond Masoso the Secretary of the Panguna Negotiation Office, Stephen Burain CEO for Mining Department, PAUL COLEMAN and the participants of this meeting.

Pictures by Aloysius Laukai

Landowners set out their Panguna preconditions 

03.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

BCL AND PANGUNA LANDOWNERS MEETING

By Aloysius Laukai

A one day meeting between the Panguna Landowners and the Secretary of Bougainville Copper Limited, PAUL COLEMAN started in Buka this morning and was opened by the ABG President, DR.JOHN MOMIS.

The meeting is a follow up of several meetings between the two groups to discuss outstanding issues that the two groups needs sort out before the negotiations on the future of the closed Panguna Mine can proceed between ABG, BCL and the Landowners themselves.

Today's meeting is being attended by all the nine Landowner Associations that are now registering with IPA before they vote for one overall Umbrella association Chairman who will represent all these associations.

BCL is being represented by MR. PAUL COLEMAN.

03.07.2013

Source. Radio New Zealand International

Compensation to precede Bougainville mine opening - Momis

The government of Bougainville is confident the owners of the huge Panguna copper and gold mine will be amenable to compensation and reconciliation demands before any re-opening can happen.

The autonomous Papua New Guinea province has been holding fora to canvass views on a re-opening, and there is strong interest in it going ahead, to boost the economy.

There are also caveats that reconciliation be conducted and that compensation for damage and environmental destruction be paid beforehand.

The president of the Autonomous Bougainville Government, John Momis, says he hopes talks with BCL can begin before the end of this year.

He says he believes the company will come to the table on these issues.

“In fact, it is not completely new to them, they won’t be surprised. We have already had consultative meetings with BCL as well as the national government, the landowners, ex-combatants and ABG. .”

The president of the Autonomous Bougainville Government, John Momis

03.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Minister reviles truth

By Tapo Tovilu

The Autonomous Region of Bougainville Minister for finance Albert Punghau has slammed the National Government on its treatment of Bougainville affairs.

He was referring to the outstanding moneys owed to the ABG by the Papua New Guinea National Government.

Mr Punghau made it clear to those present at the mining forum in Arawa last week that much of the work the ABG is trying to do have been hampered by sabotage efforts by the national government.

He says that through the signing of the peace agreement which was done by both the ABG and the National Government and the National Government has failed to uphold its end of the deal in the drawing down of powers and the handing over of grants.

The finance minister made it clear that more than K100million in grants promised by the National Government has not been handed over to his ministry.

The Minister told the people of Bougainville that the ABG was put into power by them and through the ABG’s yearly budgets they will provide and deliver to the people.

However as he explained this has not been the case as much needed funds have not yet been given to the ABG.

He called on all members of the forum to keep fighting hard for the opening of the mine, as it will be our back bone if we want to break free from PNG.

03.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Children must be protected

By Tapo Tovilu

Our children are our future and the people who will bring on our generation in the coming years; therefore they must be protected from all forms of violence and ill-treatment.

These were the words of Helen Hakena Executive Director of the Leitana Nehan Women’s Agency during an interview with New Dawn FM yesterday.

While answering questions of Human Rights issues in the region she raised the issue of Children and Women security in our communities.

Mrs. Hakena has been in the forefront of Human Rights activism and the protection of women and children sights in Bougainville.

She made a stand saying that Bougainville today must protect nature and bring up children well as they are our future.

She added that many times children and women are the victims in all forms of violence and suffer the most in families and communities in Bougainville.

Major development she says will bring in change in many instances bad and good changes but with all of these changes and development child security must be a top priority in our communities.

Hakena has come out openly calling on community’s families and individuals to help protect and care for our children and women and help keep their right to be free happy and treated equal in our society.

03.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Police foot beat increased

By Tapo Tovilu

The Bougainville Police Service has increased its foot beat patrols in their efforts to educate and make aware illegal activities in and around Buka town.

Police Station Commander Sgt Emmart Tsimes says that the Bougainville Police Service has carried out these foot patrols in the hot spot drinking areas of Buka town.

He says that it wasn’t so much of making arrests but was a way of carrying out Community Policing to the public.

He continued to strengthen the call on the usage of the Buka Buai market appealing to mothers especially to vacate the area after the market is closed down.

Sgt Tsimes says that the market wasn’t designed to cater for late night markets also adding that it was also adding illegal activities.

Sgt Tsimes made a strong call to the people of Buka and the whole of Bougainville to heed the laws as the BPS was ready to arrest and prosecute those who continue to break the law.

03.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

Women call for autonomy awareness

By Tapo Tovilu

The Leitana Women’s Agency has come out calling on the ABG to do more to educate all people of Bougainville on the Bougainville peace agreement and our progress.

Helen Hakena Executive Director of the Leitana Women’s Agency has made a call saying that many people in our rural areas do not know what is in the Bougainville Peace Agreement.

She made the call amidst constant confusions with the Bougainville Peace Agreement and its roles in the road to referendum and if successful Independence.

Mrs Hakena explained that there must be more awareness carried out so that all people of Bougainville especially the majority in the villages can know and fully support the ABG in its work.

She added that if the ABG cannot carry out this awareness than it should engage NGO’s who she says are ready to carry it out.

03.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Sohano school gets new building 

By WINTERFORD TOREAS

THE shortage of classrooms previously faced by the students and staff of Sohano Primary School in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville will soon be a thing of the past.

This follows the recent opening of a three-in-one classroom, constructed with financial assistance from both the parents and the North Bougainville MP Lauta Atoi.

Mr Atoi’s assistance was timely as the school was about to be suspended by the Bougainville Education Board due to overcrowding of students.

Mr Atoi had chipped in with K47,000, with an additional K13,000 to be given shortly to fully complete the building.

Speaking during the opening ceremony last Thursday, Mr Atoi’s executive officer Tom Saramasi said education was one of the top priority areas identified by the North Bougainville MP. 

Mr Saramasi said there was a great need for Bougainville to build its human resource capacity before moving forward to its political future.

He said Mr Atoi, upon seeing this need had already allocated a substantial amount of money towards the cause.

He added that Mr Atoi had already funded many educational projects and programs in his electorate. 

Mr Saramasi said the North Bougainville MP would also fund the renovation of one staff house at Sohano.

Acting chief executive of Bougainville’s Division of Education James Salanin urged the students, staff, parents and the Sohano community to look after the property.

Mr Salanin also thanked Mr Atoi for seeing the need of the school and allocating funds towards this project.

He also called on Mr Atoi to continue funding projects for education and health among other sectors in North Bougainville.

School board chairman Nicholas Lauta appealed to the parents to continue raising funds to fully complete the building.

03.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

GLYN TOVIRIKA WARNS PANGUNA LANDOWNERS

By Aloysius Laukai

The former ABG member for Central Bougainville representing Ex combatants and BRA strongman, GLYN TOVIRIKA wants the PANGUNA mine reopened to support the ABG raise much needed funds to deliver goods and services to the people of Bougainville.

MR. TOVIRIKA also called on the ME’EKAMUI to prepare to compensate fallen fighters of the war on Bougainville if it does not want to reopen the mine.

He said he fought under FRANCIS ONA who told fighters that PANGUNA MINE will be reopened if the Independence for Bougainville was guaranteed.

MR. TOVIRIKA made these comments in Arawa last week when presenting Central Bougainville Veterans Association’s views on the issue of PANGUNA at the 4th Regional Forum on Panguna Negotiations.

He said many young Bougainvilleans died supporting the Panguna landowners because they said they wanted Independence for Bougainville.

MR. TOVIRIKA said that whilst the road to Independence has been mapped with the clock ticking to the referendum day he does not understand why people should oppose the opening of the Panguna mine.

He said that if PANGUNA alone can bankroll the Independence of Bougainville he does not see any difficulty for PANGUNA Bankrolling the Independence of the Republic of Bougainville.

The former ABG minister for Veterans Affairs said that if Mekamui has other alternatives of raising the required funds for Bougainville they should spell out to the people of Bougainville.

03.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

WAKAI HAPPY

By Aloysius Laukai

The ABG member for BOLAVE constituency, LAWRENCE WAKAI last week thanked the office of the Bougainville Mining Department for having the 5th Regional Forum on Panguna Negotiations in his electorate.

Speaking at the closing of the forum last Thursday, MR. WAKAI said that the people of BOLAVE have killed two or three birds with only one stone because of the forum.

He said first the Forum was able to make the ABG President, DR. JOHN MOMIS visit the people of BANA.

Second was that the people of BANA were able to contribute meaningfully to the forum.

And that the ABG Minister for Finance and Works and other ABG Ministers and the Chief Administrator and his Administration staff were able to see the state of their feeder road leading to the Community Hall at Boleuko.

The ABG member for BOLAVE told his people to be happy that although they may be far away from Buka, they were able to see and talk with the President and his Ministers at the Forum.

03.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

MY PEOPLE NEVER BENEFITED SAYS MINISTER

By Aloysius Laukai

The ABG Minister for mining and member for IORO which covers the Panguna area, MICHAEL ONI says that his people down the tailings received only wastes from the Panguna mine with no tangible benefits.

Speaking at the 5th Regional Forum on Panguna Negotiations at BOLEUKO last week, the Minister told the people of BANA that he and his people are on the same boat as the people of BANA.

MR. ONI said that this was because the agreement in which BCL operated in never gave any consideration for the people who were affected by the Panguna operations.

He said this time this will change as the reopening of the Panguna mine would be negotiated under the new Bougainville Law on mining which comes into effect after September this year.

MR. ONI said that this time the new law will make sure that environmental issues are addressed and that the people and their environment must be protected at all times.

He told the people of BANA that in every development some things have to be destroyed to cater for the changes however the ABG Government will make sure that the damages are minimal.

The Minister also thanked the people of BANA for their participation at the 5th Regional Forum on Panguna Negotiations.

03.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

BANA WANT A MINISTER

By Aloysius Laukai

The people of BANA want a cabinet Minister to be appointed to a BANA member of the Autonomous Bougainville Government.

One of the paramount chiefs from the area, WILLIAM KONDIKO made this request during question time at the 5th Regional Forum on Panguna Negotiations in Bana last week.

He said that apart from questions on the Panguna mine and other issues, the people of BANA want the ABG President to know that they fill neglected as they have three constituency members who are not members of the BOUGAINVILLE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (BEC).

In reply the ABG President, DR. JOHN MOMIS promised to look into the matter as a matter of urgency.

He told the people of BANA that because he preaches ALL INCLUSIVENESS he would look at their request.

03.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

SISITO CALLS FOR UNDERSTANDING

By Aloysius Laukai

The ABG minister for Veterans Affairs and Ex combatants member for CENTRAL Bougainville, DAVID SISITO has warned the people of Bougainville to understand that the timeframe for the Bougainville Peace Agreement was drawing nearer each day and make decisions for the common good of Bougainville.

He made these remarks in his closing remarks at the 5th Regional Forum on Panguna negotiations in BANA last Thursday.

MR. SISITO said that for Bougainville to move into economic recovery and economic self reliance, the ABG must raise a total on SEVENTY TWO MILLION KINA which can only happen when PANGUNA mine is re-opened.

He said that if the Bougainville Peace Agreement lapses in 2020 all their talk of Independence and landownership would be forfeited to the State of Papua New Guinea.

MR. SISITO said when this happens all Bougainville leaders and Ex combatants will be held for treason as all agreements with PNG will become null and void.

The Veterans Affairs Minister said that to avoid all these problems the Ex-combatants and landowners must agree to reopen the Panguna Copper mine.

On calls by women leaders to be given the chance to negotiate, MR. SISITO said that one hidden plan was that all Bougainville single women will be married by outsiders to own the land.

MR. SISITO said one plan was that if Bougainville fails to get independence a military base will be based on Bougainville to stop any future uprisings on Bougainville.

03.07.2013

Source: Radio Australia Network News

Court dismisses human rights case against Rio Tinto

LIAM COCHRANE  

A US COURT HAS DISMISSED a long-running human rights case filed against Anglo-Australian mining company Rio Tinto, relating to its mine in Papua New Guinea's Bougainville Province.

Disputes over the Panguna copper and gold mine sparked a civil war in the late 1980s and led PNG's government to hire mercenaries in what became known as 'The Sandline Affair'.

For almost 13 years, Bougainville residents have sought to hold the mine's parent company, Rio Tinto, responsible for human rights abuses and deaths relating to a blockade. 

On 28 June, an 11-judge panel at a US appeals court ruled to dismiss the proceedings against Rio Tinto. 

The court's decision noted the April verdict in the case Kiobel v Royal Dutch Petroleum Co, which limited the reach of a US law - the Alien Tort Statute - often used to pursue human rights cases abroad.

There was no immediate comment from the US-based legal team representing the people of Bougainville nor from Rio Tinto.

The decision about Rio Tinto comes as talks are underway to re-open the Panguna mine, and as Bougainville prepares for a referendum on independence to be held between 2015 and 2020.

02.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

MAJORITY WANTS PANGUNA OPEN

By Aloysius Laukai

The Regional Forums on Panguna Negotiations will be completed in Panguna next week.

The forums which started in Buka for the North Bougainville, Nissan and Atolls, North Bougainville and Tinputz, Kunua and Kereaka were held in Buka.

The Regional forums for South Bougainville which include Siwai and Buin were held in Buin and the Regional Forums for Central Bougainville that is Wakunai and Kieta districts were held last week in Arawa.

The BANA forum was a special session for the people of BANA who were directly affected by the wastes from the Panguna Copper Mine.

The Bana two days BANA forum also ended last week at the BOLEUKO community Hall in the Bolave Constituency.

The final forum will be held in Panguna for EIVO/IORO and PANGUNA districts.

After the final forum in Panguna the team will now prepare a paper from the several forums to the Bougainville Parliament for more deliberations.

According to reports collected by NEW DAWN FM despite the several opinions all stakeholders want the mine to re-open to support the ABG raise funds to deliver much needed services to the people of Bougainville.

02.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

ABG PRESIDENT THANKS STAKEHOLDERS

By Aloysius Laukai

The ABG President, DR. JOHN MOMIS last week welcomed comments and contributions made by all stakeholders during the four days Regional forums on Panguna Negotiations held in Arawa and BANA.

Speaking at the closing of the BANA forum, President MOMIS said that we can unite despite the differences in opinions for the sake of the common good of Bougainville.

The ABG President thanked especially thanked the Mekamui faction led by its President, PHILIPH MIRIORI for his contribution.

He said that the ABG was looking at ways of accommodating the factions still operating outside the ABG to come into the system through the Local level Government or COE system of government.

President Momis also said that all contributions by all stakeholders were good and raising issues in such forums was a sign of a healthy community.

The ABG President attended both forums in Arawa and Bana which ended last Thursday.

02.07.2013

Source: Radio New Dawn on Bougainville

CYRIL AGEN ON CARGO CULT MOVEMENT

By Aloysius Laukai

The Chairman of the Selau Quigen Council of Elders, CYRIL AGEN today raised concerns at a cult movement he says is slowly moving into his COE from SUIR.

He told New Dawn FM today that he was concerned that a cult which has started in ARAVIA village then down to ROMSIS and now has reached the Siara village in Selau.

MR. AGEN is appealing to his people not to join this cult group and also join the FIFTY TOEA Collection they are collecting for their government that has emerged in these areas.

The COE Chairman also said that there was no need to establish church and government activities in those mountainous areas as these services are already available.

MR. AGEN said that he was concerned at a SUIR villager married to ARAVIA village who is slowly introducing the cult organization.

He said that he is calling on the people of SIARA who are already participating with this organization to discuss ways they can avoid these activities.

The Chairman said that if all avenues he is working fails he will have no option but report to the Buka Police for investigations.

02.07.2013

Source: EMTV

Life made easier for Central Bougainvilleans

Life has been made a little easier for some ten thousand people of Central Bougainville.

They stand to benefit from the new Wakunai-Togarao Road on the east coast that ensures much better access to markets and services at Wakunai, Arawa and Buka.

President John Momis said Togarao is known for its fertile soil and high quality of garden produce in this region.

Mr. Momis said the road itself is an important project and will assist the Togarao people to increase garden food production at Wakunai, Buka and Arawa.

PNGSDP chief executive David Sode said the Eleven Million Kina project would open up a new world of opportunity for the people.

He said the main purpose is to allow PNGSDP’s local contractors to start the major development work on the first phase of the Togarao Power project.

There has been limited work using the existing access track so the reconstruction work on this road will assist bring heavy equipment haulage to install the hydro system.

Once this is done, electricity will be made available to the Rotokas villages and surrounding communities, local school and the clinic.

01.07.2013

Source: Radio New Zealand International

Bougainville human rights appeal against mine giant dismissed

The mining giant Rio Tinto has won the dismissal of a case that would have required it to counter allegations of complicity in human rights abuses in Papua New Guinea’s Bougainville province.

The ruling, by the United States Court of Appeal, ends a legal battle launched in 2000 by thousands of Bougainvilleans, represented by Seattle lawyer Steve Berman.

The case was based on a claim that the London-based mining company conspired with the PNG government to quell civil resistance on Bougainville to its Panguna copper mining operation, causing thousands of deaths.

In 2010 the appeal court ruled that the case could be heard under an 18th century ruling allowing foreigners injured by a violation of international law to take legal action in the US.

But Reuters reports that after an April Supreme Court ruling overturned that decision, Mr Berman asked the appeal court to return the case to the Los Angeles district court so the plaintiffs could proceed with other claims.

A panel of 11 appellate judges used as a precedent an earlier Supreme Court ruling that limited the scope of the Alien Torte Statute to international law violations occurring in the United States.

It was agreed in that ruling that violations elsewhere must "touch and concern" US territory "with sufficient force" to overturn that definition.

01.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

Rio Tinto wins case

US Court dismisses class action

By DAVID LORNIE in BOUGAINVILLE

RIO Tinto, the parent company of Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL), has emerged victorious in a long-running court battle against victims of the 10-year Bougainville War.

A 10-year secessionist war on Bougainville ensued, which reportedly claimed up to 20,000 lives.

On Friday (Saturday PNG time) the majority of an 11-judge panel of the Ninth US Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed the class action against Rio Tinto which had alleged the company was responsible for war crimes, cultural devastation and environmental rape.

Steve Berman of US law firm Hagens Berman who represents the Bougainvilleans told Post-Courier by email, the court has dismissed the case, unjustly so in our view. 

He added: We are considering re filing with many individuals as plaintiffs rather than a class action. We would assert claims of assault, battery, murder, conspiracy.

The case, known as Sarei versus Rio Tinto, alleged that Rio's conduct violated customary international law, including prohibitions against destruction of the right to life and health, and prohibitions against racial discrimination and war crimes. 

Rio's conduct violated the settled standards for the protection of human rights and the environment recognised by customary international law and United States legal precedent.

In the landmark court case, the plaintiffs were seeking remedy under the Federal Alien Tort Claims Act, a US law that had been used to litigate against companies accused of abusing human rights worldwide.

However, that law's international clout was restricted by the April 17 decision in the Kiobel V Royal Dutch Petroleum Co case  a Nigerian lawsuit alleging crimes against humanity by the oil company. The majority of judges in that case declared the Statute was designed in the main to cover International law breaches within the US.

This has now impacted on the Sarei V Rio Tinto case which was discontinued on Friday as a result. This has now impacted on the Sarei v Rio Tinto case. 

01.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

AROB ready for referendum date

By ROMULUS MASIU

BOUGAINVILLE is ready and all geared up to receive the date for the Referendum for Independence which will be decided next year 2014 by the second Bougainville House of Representatives.

The Momis-Nisira government has earmarked the year be set in 2016 with the day and date to be settled when the House sits in its special meeting first thing next year.

President Chief Dr John Momis challenged Bougainvilleans to rise up and be counted when the date is finally set saying there is no time to lose.

“We must seriously decide on the referendum as this decision we make will determine our future. Let’s keep on dreaming and be prepared to dream the impossible and make it possible. We have to dream on and reap the fruit of our dreams – not just dream empty dreams. People who don’t dream are dead. People who dream have belief and hope one day they will benefit from the dreams they have had with others.”

Dr Momis further said now is the time to make sure our dreams are realised otherwise our dreams will be of no purpose and no use. He urged the people of Bougainville to put dreams to concrete programs.

“We have to be united and work as team. Bougainville has to play as a member of one team. Process is very important, when we take care of the process, the outcome will be acceptable to all of us including our foreign investors and governments. Bougainvillea has to prove that we are not crying for money alone, we are crying for justice, we are crying for freedom. We didn’t fight for money alone. We fought for justice and freedom too.”

President Momis said this is a very important political process – autonomy is finished, autonomy ended already – discussion about autonomy is history already, now we are at this crossroad to Referendum for Independence which will be decided by the Second House which has taken over from the First House – the foundation government under the leadership of late President Joseph Kabui.The Momis-Nisira government is bringing the date closer to 2016 challenging the people of Bougainville if they are ready or not.

“Are you ready, or you afraid – that is why we are leaders and we are indigenous people of our mother land Bougainville. We have to decide our future – no one else. No outsider must decide our future –our destiny.”

“We are leaders today because we must show leadership and authority to govern – this is our task, when we die don’t regret, let us unite for one common good – for now and future. Let us be united and become one voice because we have one legislative government which is ABG – it’s not government for President Momis and his Ministers – this is the government of Bougainville. That is why we sacrifice – we sacrifice 20,000 lives during the Bougainville Crisis. 

What justice will we give them? Let us make the right decision today for our future generation with whatever governing instruments,” President Dr Momis said.

01.07.2013

Source: The National

National govt owes people of Bougainville

By ROMULUS MASIU

THE National Government of Papua New Guinea owes the people of Bougainville K200 million in restoration and development grants as agreed under the Bougainville Peace Agreement (BPA).

An angry Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) Minister for Finance Albert Punghau blasted National Government saying that by law ABG can take the National Government to court and has assured the people of Bougainville that ABG will just do that – it will take the National Government to court over the issue. “I’ve already spoken to President Chief Dr John Momis and we will definitely take them to court. Even though we have signed the BPA in good faith, we signed for the referendum, we signed for restoration development grant and we signed for the other monies and the National government is continuously and purposely delaying our money till today. You can know the politics of this thing, the ‘Cold War’ is still on, you have to be mindful and make the crucial decision and we open the Panguna Mine and have our own money,” Mr Punghau reminded the people of Bougainville last week in Arawa. 

The financial arrangement under the BPA stipulates that the PNG government has to provide grants to the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG). One such grant is the Restoration and Development Grants. The grant was introduced in 2005, with the first Bougainville House of Representatives getting K10 million. From then on the grant accumulated to K12 million and then to K15million. When the second Bougainville House of Representatives took office the figure is still locked up at K15 million till today. However, Mr Punghau highlighted that according to the formula of the BPA, this money K15 million must increase prorate as per increases of the public investment of PNG. To date this is not happening totaling to K188million owed to Bougainville. 

This is just one example of the National Government’s uninspiring support and delay tactic that has prompted Momis-Nisira led government to set its sight on the re-opening of the Panguna Mine to re-build its economy and gain independence from PNG. “If the mine is re-opened Bougainville will be one of the richest places on earth with its 300,000 benefiting from billions from the copper-gold deposits at the Panguna pit,” Minister Punghau said, adding that the responsibility of ABG is to provide the goods and services to its population as in the budget, at the same time build economy which it is not doing at the moment because of lack of financial capital. “Let’s kick-start the economy by re-opening the Panguna Mine, if the mine has given independence to Papua New Guinea, this is our money, why we give money to outsiders and now we are becoming beggars on our own land, when we can’t agree on the re-opening of the mine which is rightfully ours,” Mr Punghau said adding that the budget is critical in relation to what the National Government of PNG is doing to Bougainville and its people.

01.07.2013

Source: Post-Courier

K11m Bougainville road brings opportunity 

THE launching of a K11 million road project in central Bougainville marks the arrival of social and economic development potential for the 10,000 people in the area, PNG Sustainable Development Program chief David Sode says.

Sode said the reconstruction and upgrading of the Wakunai-Togarao Road on the east coast of the island would enable construction of the PNGSDP-funded Togarao hydro scheme to go ahead.

He said the road would also give people in the Togarao area access to markets for their garden produce and to essential services at Wakunai and Arawa and Buka.

Sode said the road would open a new world of opportunities for the people. 

“Its main purpose is to allow PNGSDP’s local contractors to start the major development work on the first phase of the Togarao power project,” he said.

“We have been able to do some limited work using the existing access track but we need a road capable of heavy equipment haulage to allow the main components of the hydro system to be brought in and installed.

“Once this equipment is installed, electricity will be available to the Rotokas villages in the immediate vicinity, which is a big step forward in terms of potential social and economic development.

“The power project, which is being overseen by Western Power, a PNGSDP subsidiary, will improve the quality of life in the villages, particularly by making electricity available to the local school and clinic.

 “A spin-off benefit will be the access it provides for people from the remote Togarao area to Wakunai, and further on via the island highway to Arawa and Buka.”

Autonomous Bougainville Government President John Momis thanked PNGSDP and welcomed the start of work on the road.

“The road itself is an important project because it will cut the very high cost of getting to and from Togarao on the existing track, which is in very poor condition,” Momis  said at the launching.

“Togarao is well known for the fertility of its soil and the quality of its garden produce, and I believe there is good potential to increase local production on the back of quicker and cheaper transport to the market at Wakunai, and further on to Buka and Arawa.

“The road will make it much easier for villagers to get access to essential government and non-government services.”

The road is being built by local contractor Jomik Plant Hire Ltd.