Opposition MP James Nomane, has declared the historic 2019 Bougainville Referendum results the “most consequential question” the national legislature will ever face.
Bougainville Affairs Minister Manasseh Makiba formally tabled the referendum outcomes—which show a 97.7 percent vote in favor of independence- alongside the Joint Consultation Report and the Melanesian Framework.
Addressing the Parliament on Thursday August 27th, Nomane commended both the government and Bougainville leaders for bringing the issue to the floor, emphasizing that the decision demands absolute national unity, careful legal scrutiny, and respect for the constitution.
He reflected on the historical context of a united Papua New Guinea forged by founding fathers like Grand Chief Michael Somare, while thanking former Prime Ministers Somare, Peter O'Neill, and current Prime Minister James Marape for their stewardship in keeping the process peaceful.
Rather than rushing through the material, Nomane urged his fellow members to apply “pensive contemplation” to the aspirations of the Bougainville people and ensure consultations are carried out thoroughly across the country.
Echoing the need for careful deliberation, Prime Minister James Marape stressed that the referendum results are not self-executing and that Parliament holds the ultimate constitutional authority under Section 342.
“The decision is now formally before this Parliament, and we must respect the process that has brought this decision into our Parliament,” Prime Minister Marape stated, urging lawmakers to take adequate time for research and constituent consultation before a final vote is taken.
The initial floor debate also featured contributions from other senior leaders, including Rabaul MP and Bipartisan Committee Chairman Dr. Allan Marat, who likened Parliament’s role to a midwife safely managing a transition, and Mt Hagen MP William Duma, who raised questions regarding the state’s constitutional framework.
In addition, figures such as Sir John Pundari, Belden Namah, William Powi, and Peter Tsiamalili, also underscored the importance of maintaining peace and unity.
Leaders have agreed to defer the matter to another parliamentary sitting to allow lawmakers to review the Melanesian Framework.