Referendum result must be respected, says PM Marape

Prime Minister James Marape has asserted in Parliament that the outcome of Bougainville's recent referendum must be respected. The vote saw an overwhelming 97.7 percent in favor of independence, a result Marape stressed needs acknowledgment even as the Parliament deliberates its constitutional role in the process.

Marape proposed a significant date for the conclusion of the peace process: August 30, 2026. This date marks the 25th anniversary of the Bougainville Peace Agreement, suggesting a symbolic and timely end to the long-standing political discussions.

The Prime Minister's remarks underscore the political weight of the referendum result and signal a move towards formalizing Bougainville's aspirations. The focus now shifts to how the national Parliament will navigate its constitutional responsibilities in light of the clear mandate expressed by the people of Bougainville.

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Bougainvilleans voted 97.7 percent in favor of independence and said the outcome must be acknowledged even as Parliament considers its constitutional role.