Autonomous Bougainville Government’s (ABG) President Ishmael Toroama has described the late Selau Constituency MP Joseph Watawi as a patriotic and passionate Bougainville leader who worked throughout his life to ensure there is political liberation and freedom for their people.
The late Joseph Watawi passed away on 15 November, at his home at Kokopau in North Bougainville.
In his condolence message, President Toroama said late Watawi played an integral role in the peace process during the negotiations and creation of the Bougainville Peace Agreement in 2001.
The late Watawi was also instrumental in the formation of the first Bougainville House of Representatives in 2005 and was elected as the inaugural Member for Selau Constituency.
He was then appointed by former President Joseph Kabui as Vice President and the Minister for Commerce.
“As Vice President he worked with President Kabui to hold together a deeply divided Bougainville and bring about socio-economic and political change,” Mr Toroama said.
“These changes strengthened Bougainville and paved the way for unity to prevail and development to flourish.”
President Toroama said while many can attest to the Late Joseph Watawi’s accomplishments, his overall legacy will be his commitment to Bougainville’s Independence Mission.
“He leaves behind a legacy that we as a people must strive to emulate.”
“On behalf of the Government and people of Bougainville I offer our sincerest condolences to the family of the Late Joseph Watawi and the people of Selau.”