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Bougainville independence vote to be debated by PNG Parliament
Papua New Guinea’s Parliament is set to debate the ratification of the 2019 Bougainville referendum results, a process that could determine the region's future independence. In that non-binding referendum, 97.7 percent of voters chose independence, while 2.3 percent opted for greater autonomy.
Prime Minister James Marape has called for national unity and peace ahead of the deliberations. He urged citizens and Members of Parliament to approach the constitutional process with humility and wisdom rather than hostility or division. Marape noted that while the referendum result was legitimate and overwhelming, the final decision-making authority rests with the National Parliament in accordance with the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement.
The parliamentary debate is expected to begin on Thursday, following a National Day of Prayer and Repentance called by the Prime Minister to seek guidance for the nation during this historic period.
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What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] The 2019 Bougainville referendum result was legitimate, peaceful, and overwhelming. asiapacificreport.nz · eveningreport.nz
- [○ 1 SOURCE] In the 2019 referendum, 97.7 percent of voters chose independence and 2.3 percent voted for greater autonomy. thepngbulletin.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The final decision regarding the referendum rests with the National Parliament under the Bougainville Peace Agreement. thepngbulletin.com · asiapacificreport.nz · eveningreport.nz
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Papua New Guinea Parliament is scheduled to debate the ratification of the Bougainville referendum result starting Thursday. asiapacificreport.nz · eveningreport.nz