Bougainville general: Separate mine reopening from resolving crisis deaths

Former Bougainville Revolutionary Army (BRA) General Sam Kauona has issued a clear directive, calling for the reopening of the Panguna mine and the resolution of civil crisis-related deaths to be treated as separate issues. He stressed that these two critical matters must not be made dependent on each other.

Holding a significant position within the history of Bougainville's conflict, Kauona's statement carries weight. The Panguna mine, a major source of revenue during its operational years, has been a focal point for economic revival discussions. However, its potential reopening is intertwined with the lingering trauma and unresolved issues from the civil crisis.

Kauona's call suggests a strategic approach to Bougainville's post-conflict recovery. By decoupling the mine's future from the sensitive process of addressing past atrocities, he implies a pathway that allows for economic progress without compromising or delaying the pursuit of justice and reconciliation for victims and their families. This distinction is crucial for a society striving for healing and stability.

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Healing & Reconciliation in a post-conflict society is a continuous journey