Governments brief media ahead of Bougainville ratification

The National Government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) have briefed media organisations on the outcomes of consultations held under the Melanesian Framework, as both governments prepare for the next phase of the Bougainville peace process.

The briefing was held on Tuesday at Melanesian Haus in Port Moresby and was led by ABG Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei and Government Chief Secretary Ivan Pomaleu.

The two officials provided an overview of the Melanesian Framework and Joint Consultation Report, which documents the consultation process and outcomes reached by the two governments since the 2019 Bougainville Referendum.

They said the report outlines extensive engagement between the National Government and ABG to discuss the referendum outcome and consider pathways forward in accordance with the Bougainville Peace Agreement and constitutional processes.

The briefing was organised to give journalists and media organisations a clear understanding of the consultation process and its outcomes, supporting accurate and informed reporting as discussions move towards the upcoming ratification process.

Media representatives from Bougainville were flown into Port Moresby to attend the briefing, alongside representatives from print, radio, television and online media organisations in Port Moresby.

The journalists engaged with officials on key aspects of the report and the next steps for both governments.

The event was supported by the United Nations as part of ongoing efforts to raise public awareness and understanding of Bougainville’s political future.