Prime Minister (PM) James Marape and President for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Ishmael Toroama, today announced the appointment of a mediator for the Bougainville peace process towards its independence aspirations. Sir Jerry Mateparae, former Governor-General of New Zealand, has been appointed as an independent moderator to help mediate the Bougainville peace process. His role is critical as Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Bougainville continue to work through complex issues following the 2019 referendum, in which 97.7% of Bougainvilleans voted for independence. Both President Toroama and Prime Minister Marape expressed confidence in Sir Jerry’s impartiality and expertise. Prime Minister Marape note: “He’s one of our senior citizens. Independence of opinion.” The United Nations will assist Sir Jerry by providing logistical and administrative support. Marape highlighted the significance of Sir Jerry’s involvement, stating that his moderation adds credibility to the peace process. “The good thing about the 2001 peace agreement, and I give credit to those who helped out... it is a masterpiece. It is world-class.” The consultation process will continue under Sir Jerry’s guidance, with a joint meeting between the PNG and Bougainville governments planned for the near future. In addition to Sir Jerry’s appointment, the national government has asked all provincial assemblies across PNG to discuss Bougainville’s push for independence. Marape emphasized that this is a decision requiring the involvement of the entire country. "To detach one part of a country is not a lightweight matter... It’s a process that must involve all parts of our country,” he said, acknowledging that the post-referendum process is both sensitive and significant. Marape reiterated that the current consultations aim to inform the nation, not to hold another vote. “We must find a path that is mutually satisfying to all of us,” he said, explaining that the 2001 peace agreement requires only internal consultations within PNG after the referendum. The peace process will also include a national reconciliation program leading up to PNG’s 50th anniversary of independence in 2025. Marape confirmed that this reconciliation will involve both PNG and Bougainville, as well as internal reconciliation within Bougainville itself. “We’re looking at a reconciliation, full reconciliation program between Papua New Guinea and Bougainville,” he said. Bougainville’s leadership, under President Ishmael Toroama, has already been engaging with other provinces in PNG to inform them of the independence process. Marape praised these efforts, noting, “Bougainvillians must also think from a PNG perspective.” The ongoing discussions will culminate in a parliamentary vote, with Sir Jerry Mateparae’s moderation expected to play a key role in ensuring a fair and transparent outcome.