Ishmael Toroama has been re-elected as President of Bougainville, securing a decisive victory in the 2025 general elections. With over 90,000 votes in his favor, Toroama remains committed to pursuing independence for Bougainville from Papua New Guinea (PNG), despite facing resistance from the PNG government in Port Moresby.
As a former commander in the Bougainville Revolutionary Army, Toroama brings a history of leadership to the autonomous region. His main agenda is to achieve political independence, a pursuit fueled by a 2019 non-binding referendum where 97.7 percent of Bougainvilleans voted in favor of independence. However, the path to independence has been stalled, with the PNG government showing little inclination to cede ground.
In his first address after re-election, Toroama emphasized his determination to continue pushing for independence by 2027. He considers the referendum a legal mandate, given its presence in the PNG constitution, and is prepared to advance with it despite the national government’s reluctance.
Political scientist Michael Kabuni views President Toroama as a strong leader who has been pivotal in holding the PNG government accountable. If independence negotiations fail, Bougainville may have to consider alternative political settlements, though full-fledged independence remains the goal for maximum autonomy.
Prime Minister James Marape has acknowledged Toroama’s victory and affirmed ongoing support for regional development, pledging to maintain peace and stability in discussions concerning Bougainville’s future. However, Kabuni argues that history shows a lack of genuine commitment to devolution on the part of PNG, with many parliamentarians opposing independence.
The Bougainville Peace Agreement (BPA), signed in 2001, is a recurring point in discussions. It’s a foundational framework for autonomy and peace following years of conflict. Despite past challenges, there remains optimism among Bougainville leaders and the community for a future where their political aspirations for independence might soon be realized.