Bougainville leaders call for progress on independence from Papua New Guinea

Bougainville leaders are calling for a clear path toward self-determination following a 2019 referendum in which 97.7 percent of voters supported independence from Papua New Guinea. While the referendum was not legally binding, the results require a final decision from the Papua New Guinea Parliament.

South Bougainville MP Timothy Masiu reaffirmed his support for independence in Parliament, urging leaders to respect the region's aspirations while maintaining the unity of Papua New Guinea. Masiu emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution and a careful deliberation process rather than a rushed conclusion. He also acknowledged the international support from nations including Australia, New Zealand, and various Pacific Island states, as well as the United Nations, in maintaining peace since the 1988–89 crisis.

Regional MP Peter Tsiamalili Jr has announced a two-day debate scheduled for October 20-21 to address the issue. Although the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement mandated a referendum within 10 to 15 years of the autonomous government's election, a definitive parliamentary deadline for the final vote remains unresolved. The 2022 Era Kone Covenant set 2027 as the outer limit for implementing a settlement or independence.