Prime Minister James Marape made a significant announcement this week in which he repeated the government of Papua New Guinea commitments to upholding the agreement to advance the results of the 2019 Bougainville Referendum and stressed that the process has not been abandoned. "Bougainville Affairs Minister Manaseh Makiba is now preparing all instruments for the Referendum results to be brought to Parliament," Prime Minister Marape declared, underlining the government's dedication to advancing the peace process. On Monday, April 22, 2024, the Joint Supervisory Body (JSB) will host a much-awaited meeting. At this meeting, important parties such as Prime Minister Marape and President H.E. Ishmael Toroama of Bougainville will discuss the last phases of the 2001 Peace Agreement (BPA). At this pivotal point in Bougainville's road towards deciding its political future, the attention will be on Parliament ratifying the Referendum results. "The JSB meeting will elucidate the process, including the Sessional Order that will be deployed, to bring the Referendum result to Parliament and tabled, and what happens after voting takes place." In his explanation, Prime Minister Marape emphasized the significance of legislative actions during this stage. With 97.7% of Bougainvilleans voting in favour of independence during the Referendum, Prime Minister Marape acknowledged the enormous support for independence among the people of Bougainville. "My government allowed for the Referendum to take place in 2019, and since then, we’ve facilitated post-Referendum consultations to provide clarity on the process for Parliament to take custody of the results.” Reflecting on the emotional ties and the painful conflict that plagued the region, Prime Minister Marape expressed heartfelt sentiments, viewing Bougainville as part of the PNG family. "I can only wish that there was no war, bloodshed, tears, heartache." Prime Minister Marape addressed the worries and fears of Bougainvilleans, pleading for patience and understanding as the administration makes its way through the intricate legal and constitutional frameworks. "Let us not fear this process," he pleaded, stressing how important it was to recognize the people's votes in order to secure their political future.