The Mataungan Association of East New Britain Province has expressed its strong support for Bougainville’s pursuit of independence, highlighting sentiments of dissatisfaction with successive national governments. Association Chairman Henry Kubak articulated the concerns of Bougainvilleans, emphasizing that they feel neither safe nor prosperous within the current national framework.
These remarks were made during discussions held by the Papua New Guinea Parliamentary Bipartisan Committee in Kokopo, focusing on the situation in Bougainville. Kubak attributed a decline in national development to the 1995 removal of the Organic Law on Provincial Governments, which he argues centralized decision-making in Port Moresby and weakened the abilities of provincial authorities.
He noted that Papua New Guinea (PNG) had promising prospects in its early years of independence, citing a functioning system that deteriorated following changes to the Organic Law. Kubak stated, “Bougainville has already spoken clearly through its 97.7% referendum vote for independence, a democratic process recognized by the Bougainville Peace Agreement.” His comments reflect widespread feelings among the Tolai people, who align with Bougainvilleans in their desire for independence due to perceived failures in governance and service delivery.
Kubak also pointed out the broader implications of the struggles faced by Bougainville, stressing that the negative impact of these changes has resonated throughout East New Britain and across the nation. The PNG Bipartisan Committee, chaired by Dr. Allan Marat and including other notable MPs, has been visiting various regions to engage with local populations regarding these crucial issues.
The ongoing dialogue about autonomy and independence resonates with the desire for better governance and development, fostering hope for a brighter future and a more equitable distribution of resources across Papua New Guinea.