Report on Bougainville matters presented in Parliament

After months of a nationwide public consultation, the final 2026 Parliamentary Committee Report on Bougainville Matters was presented in Parliament on Tuesday this week.

Despite a mix debate following its presentation, Committee Chairman Dr Allan Marat says this report does not recommend a particular outcome.

But its purpose is to present Parliament a structured account of views expressed during the consultation.

Chairman Marat says the report reflects a shared view that the decision on Bougainville's political future must be made with care, responsibility, respect and commits to embracing peace in Papua New Guinea.

The National Parliament was presented a statement by Chairman of the bipartisan Parliamentary Committee on Bougainville Matters. Highlighting the report, Rabaul MP Dr Alan Marat pointed out that the report is a broader perspective of the consultations held around the country.

Despite a variety of views, few points emerged to be critical.

"Participants frequently referred to the legacy of the Bougainville conflict and emphasised the need for Parliament to approach its consideration with care, responsibility and a clear commitment to preserving the peace achieved through years of dialogue and reconciliation." chairman Marrat said.

Adding on, Chairman Marat says participants embraced the need for adherence to the constitutional processes and wants the Parliament to consider the referendum result and proceed transparently.

"Many participants highlighted the importance of constitutional process. There was a strong emphasis on the expectation that Parliament's consideration of the referendum outcome will proceed transparently and in accordance with the constitution and the Bougainville peace agreement.

"Recognising that clarity and openness in the process can help foster public understanding and confidence." Marrat said.

The conclusion of the report saw a number of mixed debates by both sides of the house. While opinions differ, Prime Minister James Marapa spoke openly to tread this process with care and a decision be made soon.

"If there is a no, it must be a no with a yes. If there is a yes, it must be a yes with a no. What do I mean by this? It means we must find a solution.

PM Marape said if the majority vote for NO, they will find a solution but if majority vote for YES, they will be asked if they are ready or not yet.