JSB endorses Joint Consultation Report and Melanesian Framework

#Bougainville #News  

JSB endorses Joint Consultation Report and Melanesian Framework, Agrees to table Referendum Results in Parliament on August 27

The Joint Supervisory Body (JSB) today endorsed the jointly developed Melanesian Framework and the Joint Consultation Report (JCR). 

The meeting, held today at the Melanesian Haus in Port Moresby, was co-chaired by Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, MP, and Autonomous Bougainville Government President His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, MHR. 

The Melanesian Framework and the Joint Consultation Report were jointly developed by the ABG and the National Government in accordance with the resolutions of the Melanesian Agreement signed by both governments on 26 June 2025. 

Together, the two documents provide an agreed pathway for progressing Bougainville's political future through a peaceful, stable and Melanesian-led process that is consistent with the Constitution of Papua New Guinea while continuing an enduring relationship between Papua New Guinea and an independent Bougainville. 

Addressing the Joint Supervisory Body, President Toroama described the Joint Consultation Report as the culmination of years of engagement between the two governments.

"The Joint Consultation Report is a record of facts and an account of everything we have consulted over since the 2019 Referendum, culminating in the defining Melanesian Agreement. They capture jointly-agreed resolutions of both our governments." 

In its resolutions, the JSB endorsed the Melanesian Framework as the agreed pathway jointly designed by the two governments to give effect to an affirmative decision by the National Parliament should it endorse the Bougainville Referendum Results. 

The meeting resolved that the Bougainville Referendum Results, together with the Joint Consultation Report and the Melanesian Framework, will be tabled in the National Parliament on 27 August 2026 for Parliament's consideration. The Prime Minister and the President will jointly determine the date on which Parliament will consider the question arising from the Referendum Results. 

The JSB also directed the Independent Facilitator and the Joint Technical Team, supported by the Joint Ministers, to conduct awareness for Members of the National Parliament on both the Joint Consultation Report and the Melanesian Framework before the matter is debated. 

President Toroama said the two documents now provide the agreed roadmap for the next phase of the peace process.

"Combined with the Melanesian Framework, this is the institutional pathway to Bougainville's self-government and ultimately, to full sovereignty. This pathway reflects Bougainville's Final Position on our timeline for self-government and for political independence," he said.  

The Joint Consultation Report, Melanesian Framework and the Referendum Results will be tabled in the National Parliament on August 27, 2026 by the National Minister for Bougainville Affairs. 

https://abg.gov.pg/index.php?/news/read/jsb-endorses-joint-consultation-report-and-melanesian-framework-agrees-to-table-referendum-results-in-parliament-on-august-27

PNG Prime Minister Hon James Marape and ANG President Ishmael Toroama Signed Joint Committee Report

#pngsun #news #abg #referendum #parliament #consultations Papua New Guinea has moved a step closer to Parliament deciding the political future of Bougainville after Prime Minister James Marape and Autonomous Bougainville Government President Ishmael Toroama concluded the final constitutional consultations on the 2019 Bougainville Referendum yesterday.

The Joint Supervisory Body (JSB) meeting at Melanesian Haus this morning endorsed the Joint Consultation Report (JCR) and the Melanesian Framework, clearing the way for the referendum results to be formally tabled in the National Parliament on August 27, 2026, where Members of Parliament will debate and make a decision in accordance with the Constitution.

The milestone follows years of political debate and public commentary over the constitutional pathway after Bougainvilleans voted overwhelmingly for independence in the 2019 referendum. 

While about 97.7 per cent of voters supported independence, the Constitution requires consultations between the National Government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government before the National Parliament makes the final decision. 

Prime Minister Marape and President Toroama signed the JSB resolutions, witnessed by Bougainville Affairs Minister Manasseh Makiba and ABG Vice President and Attorney-General Ezekiel Masatt.

Prime Minister Marape said the successful conclusion of the consultation process marked an important milestone in Papua New Guinea’s nation-building journey and fulfilled the constitutional requirements under the Bougainville Peace Agreement.

“This is a process that began with the Bougainville Peace Agreement in 2001. It became part of our Constitution. The Constitution required that a referendum be held, consultations take place, and that the National Parliament make the final decision,” he said.

PM Marape said the Government had faithfully discharged all of its constitutional responsibilities under the Peace Agreement and the Constitution, with the JSB recognising that the consultation requirements under Section 342 had now been completed.

He said Parliament must now be allowed to exercise its constitutional responsibility independently.

“The National Government and the National Parliament are two separate institutions. Government has completed its constitutional responsibilities. Parliament must now undertake its constitutional responsibility.

“Every Member of Parliament will have the opportunity to speak. Every Member will then stand and cast his or her vote according to conscience, guided by the Constitution and the interests of our country.”

The Prime Minister urged Papua New Guineans and Bougainvilleans to respect the parliamentary process and continue engaging peacefully.

“This is a difficult relationship, but it is a family relationship. Dialogue must continue.”

Mr Marape said Parliament’s decision would not mark the end of the relationship between Papua New Guinea and Bougainville, with both governments committed to continuing discussions on the way forward after Parliament has spoken.

He welcomed the endorsement of the Melanesian Framework, describing it as a jointly developed pathway to guide future engagement, maintain peace and reconciliation, and ensure the orderly implementation of whatever decision Parliament reaches.

The Prime Minister also commended President Toroama, Vice President Masatt, the Joint Technical Team, ministers and officials from both governments, as well as previous leaders and international partners, for their commitment to maintaining peace throughout the consultation process.

Apart from the referendum process, the JSB also agreed to strengthen Bougainville’s fiscal autonomy by progressing the transfer of 100 per cent of revenue generated within Bougainville from fisheries, mining, forestry, land and other relevant taxes by December 31, 2026, while accelerating the transfer of outstanding constitutional powers to the Autonomous Bougainville Government.

PM Marape said the measures demonstrated the National Government’s commitment to fully implementing the Bougainville Peace Agreement.

He also noted that Parliament would consider the referendum results on August 27, immediately after Papua New Guinea’s National Day of Prayer and Repentance on August 26, and called on churches and citizens to pray for wisdom, unity and peace.

PM Marape said Papua New Guinea had demonstrated that even the most difficult national questions could be resolved peacefully through constitutional democracy.

“For twenty-five years we have honoured the Bougainville Peace Agreement through dialogue, patience and constitutional process. Whatever the outcome, let history record that Papua New Guinea and Bougainville chose peace over conflict, dialogue over violence, and constitutional democracy over division.”

Prime Minister Marape Meets Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair at World Economic Forum, Welcomes Support on AI and Governance Reform

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has welcomed the willingness of former United Kingdom Prime Minister Rt Hon Tony Blair to support Papua New Guinea in strengthening policy development, government capacity and the use of digital technology — particularly artificial intelligence — to improve public-sector efficiency and service delivery.

The meeting took place at the margins of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, following an approach by Mr Blair requesting discussions with the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Marape said the high-level engagement provided valuable global insight at a time when nations are navigating major geopolitical and economic shifts.

“It was a privilege to meet a senior global statesman of Mr Blair’s standing,” the Prime Minister said.

“He reached out to us for a meeting, and we held detailed discussions with our respective officials present. He expressed a strong willingness to assist Papua New Guinea, particularly in the areas of policy advisory support and institutional capacity upgrading.”

Focus on ICT, Artificial Intelligence and Government Efficiency

Prime Minister Marape said Mr Blair emphasised the strategic use of appropriate information and communications technology (ICT) systems and artificial intelligence tools to modernise government operations.

“His key advice centred on how technology — especially artificial intelligence — can be deployed to improve government efficiency, remove bureaucratic impediments, sharpen national priorities and ensure governments deliver tangible outcomes for their people,” the Prime Minister said.

“This aligns strongly with our own reform agenda as we modernise the public service and ensure better value for money in government.”

Global Perspective on Geopolitics and Emerging Economies

Prime Minister Marape said the discussion also covered broader global developments, including geopolitical tensions, conflicts in strategic regions, the role of major powers, and the position of emerging markets such as Papua New Guinea within the evolving global order.

“At his level, you gain a clear view of how the world is emerging under present circumstances — with several wars taking place in strategic regions and the increasing interaction between superpowers, advanced economies and emerging nations,” he said.

“His global perspective was insightful and deeply appreciated.”

The Prime Minister noted that Mr Blair currently serves in several international advisory capacities and was recently appointed to a global peace-related role focused on the Gaza situation, reflecting his ongoing contribution to international diplomacy and humanitarian dialogue.

“We commended him for his continued engagement on global forums in the interest of peace, stability and the goodwill of humanity,” Prime Minister Marape said.

Commendation for PNG’s Democratic Stability

Prime Minister Marape said Mr Blair spoke positively about Papua New Guinea’s political record and democratic maturity.

“He commended Papua New Guinea for its consistency in democratic governance, the maintenance of a free-market economy, and our commitment to constitutional stability,” the Prime Minister said.

“He conveyed nothing but his best wishes for our country and encouraged us to remain steadfast on a path of peace, stability and inclusive growth for all our citizens.”

Potential Visit to Papua New Guinea

Prime Minister Marape revealed that Mr Blair indicated his willingness to visit Papua New Guinea in the future, particularly during his travels through Singapore, the Philippines and the wider Southeast Asian region.

“He expressed interest in returning our way to continue discussions and to support efforts aimed at strengthening governance systems and long-term development planning,” the Prime Minister said.

Emphasis on Youth and Education Through AI

A central theme of the meeting was the future of young people and the role of technology in education.

“Mr Blair strongly emphasised the importance of deploying artificial intelligence to improve access to quality education for our youth,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“He highlighted the need to empower young people with the skills required to participate meaningfully in the economy of the future — an area that resonates deeply with our government’s vision.”

Prime Minister Marape said the discussions reinforced Papua New Guinea’s commitment to embracing innovation while safeguarding national priorities.

“As we mark our nation’s 50th year of independence, these global engagements reaffirm that Papua New Guinea is respected internationally and remains well positioned to learn from global experience while charting its own development path,” he said.

Editorial|PNG SUN| - Papua New Guinea Government's Position and The Respond from the Autonomous Bougainville Government President Ishmael Toroama

#pngsun #editorial: Autonomous Bougainville Government President Ishmael Toroama has made it clear in the recent past that Bougainville will move forward with its independence plans even if the PNG Parliament rejects the 2019 referendum result.

He was bluntly speaking in a video recorded during the passage of its annual budget.

His strong stand reflects growing frustration among Bougainvilleans. This must not be taken lightly by the National Government and its relevant ministry with the Parliamentary bodies. It is not a threat but possibilities.

The statement itself reflects elements of possibilities in light of regional diplomatic ‘cold wars’ before us.

To PNG, the island has an autonomous government but still part of its territorial integrity. To the world, the ABG is invited directly by overseas governments to attend events, forums and meetings.

We do not want anymore wars-we have had enough. Wars are definitely not the panacea to their aspirations. Everyone wants a peaceful journey determining the political future of the island.

We have a vehicle Joint Supervisory Body through the Melanesian partnership agreement between the two parties. It drives views of each party in mutual and peaceful means.

What is needed urgently is an open and honest discussion based on reality, not emotion, pride, or political pressure.

Independence does not have to be an all-or-nothing choice. Around the world, there are workable models where regions control their own affairs while keeping some links with the main country.

Examples include Guam and Puerto Rico under the United States, Greenland under Denmark, Hong Kong under China, and the United Kingdom’s devolved system. These models show that strong self-rule can exist without a total breakdown.

A smart option for Bougainville would be to push for full control of resources, revenue laws, and local governance, while PNG carries old national responsibilities. Bougainville could also use easy access to PNG markets to grow jobs and income.

For PNG, such arrangements could protect stability, reduce financial risks, and keep economic ties alive.

The real problem is not lack of choices, but lack of fresh thinking. Honest dialogue and practical solutions are now more important than ever.

Is It Truly The MARAPE s CURSE? 18 MPs & Counting! 18th MAN DOWN! STILL COUNTING

PANGU LED REGIME LOST 18 MEMBERS IN DEATH ALONE FROM 2019 TO 2025 WHILE SERVING STABILITY OF THE MARAPE LED GOVERNMENT.

Following Governor Luther Wenge's recent death on September 13th 2025 to no Hon Mirisim, the total number of Papua New Guinea MPs who died between 2019 and 2025 has reached 18; they all have died while actively serving the stability of the PANGU-led regime.

The updated list of deceased MPs is as follows:

10th Parliament (2017–2022)

Thomas Pelika: Member for Menyamya (died October 30, 2019)

Sir Mekere Morauta: Member for Moresby North-West (died December 19, 2020)

Richard Mendani: Member for Kerema (died March 20, 2021)

Roy Biyama: Member for Middle Fly (died September 11, 2021)

Jonny Alonk: Member for Middle Ramu (died November 29, 2021)

Sam Akoitai: Member for Central Bougainville (died December 17, 2021)

William Samb: Member for Goilala (died March 3, 2022)

Sam Basil: Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Bulolo (died May 11, 2022)

Chris Nangoi: Member for Sumkar (died June 9, 2022)

William Nakin: Member for North Bougainville (died July 12, 2022)

11th Parliament (2022–Present)

11. Kevin Isifu: Member for Wewak (died September 14, 2022)

12. Gabriel Kapris: Member for Maprik (died August 13, 2023)

13. Steven Pim: Member for Dei (died September 24, 2023)

14. Maso Karipe: Member for Porgera-Paiela (died November 7, 2023)

15. Jimmy Uguro: Member for Usino-Bundi (died February 6, 2024)

16. Simon Dumarinu: Member for Central Bougainville (died August 9, 2024)

17. Luther Wenge: Governor for Morobe Province (died September 13, 2025).

18. Solan Mirisim (died 2-12-2025)

(We have 13 x PANGU MPs currently with Serious Medical Conditions_The Nation Prays that we have 30+ DEATHS before 2027 NGE)

#PNG50Years#fypシ゚viralシfypシ゚viralシalシ#PanguPati#PNGIndependence#PNGinPiksa#PNPPRO1Official

Under PM James Marape: Many Engan Leaders Removed out of Jealousy

 

Under the leadership of Prime Minister James Marape, several top-performing Secretaries and Directors from Enga Province were forcefully removed from major government departments. Among Engans, we often say “Huli-Openi,” but these actions appear to be driven by jealousy rather than fairness.

 

During Peter O’Neill’s term as Prime Minister, more Enga leaders were appointed to key government departments. For this reason, many Engans regard Peter O’Neill as a true brother of the Enga people.

The recent removal of Health Secretary Ken Wai is yet another sign of this jealousy. Earlier, Prime Minister Marape also removed highly performing leaders such as NAC Director Rex Keponge and Chief of Staff Isaac Lupari and Finance secretary Dr. Ken Ngangan

 

Enga people must now seriously reflect on this situation. Sadly, it feels as though we are being looked down upon by our own brother.

PRIME MINISTER MARAPE COMMENDS PNG–AUSTRALIA–INDONESIA TRI-NATION DEFENCE MINISTERS’ MEETING

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has applauded the historic first Tri-Nation Defence Ministers’ Meeting between Papua New Guinea, Australia, and Indonesia, describing it as a powerful demonstration of regional unity, sovereign respect, and long-term stability across the Indo-Pacific.

Prime Minister Marape issued the statement on behalf of the three national leaders — Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, and himself — commending their Defence Ministers for advancing an unprecedented level of cooperation among the neighbouring states.

Prime Minister Marape said the trilateral engagement reflects the immutable reality of geography, noting that PNG’s location places it at the heart of the South Pacific, East Pacific, and West Pacific intersections.

“Geography will never change. Papua New Guinea will always sit in this unique part of the world, and the peace, harmony, and coexistence we desire for the future depend on the interventions we make today,” the Prime Minister said.

He emphasised that the Asia–Pacific region—spanning Southeast Asia, Melanesia, and extending into North and West Asia—is home to over 60 per cent of the world’s population and around 60 per cent of global economic activity, making regional stability a shared responsibility.

Prime Minister Marape underscored the importance of strong, cooperative relationships between PNG, Australia, and Indonesia as foundational anchors for regional security.

“The coexistence of Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and Australia forms the base of stability not only for our three nations but for the wider Southeast Asian and Pacific region,” he said. “With a rapidly growing youth population across Asia and the Pacific, building trust and ensuring peaceful relations among neighbours is crucial.”

He said that while the three heads of government maintain constant dialogue, it is essential for ministers and state agencies to develop the same depth of operational cooperation.“Our systems must work in sync — respecting sovereignty while deepening understanding.”

Prime Minister Marape highlighted the significance of three sovereign Defence Ministers meeting face-to-face.

“Defence ministries are custodians of national sovereignty. When three sovereigns come together in dialogue and mutual respect, it strengthens peace and cooperation across our region.”

He paid special tribute to Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles for his continued engagement with Papua New Guinea.

“I commend the Australian Deputy Prime Minister for his humility and grace. He was with us during our Independence celebrations, he stood with us in the rain during the opening of the Lombrum Naval Base, and he has returned again to strengthen this important partnership.”

Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed that the PNG–Australia Defence Cooperation Treaty complements — rather than undermines — PNG’s sovereign relationships with other nations, including Indonesia.

“Today’s meeting with Indonesia demonstrates the versatility of the PNG–Australia Defence Treaty. It respects our other defence relationships in the region while safeguarding the sovereign interests of both our nations.”

He said the trilateral meeting reflects a maturing regional architecture built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for stability in an increasingly complex global environment.

Prime Minister Marape concluded by reiterating PNG’s commitment to peace, cooperation, and responsible leadership in the Pacific and Southeast Asian region.

“As a senior Pacific nation situated at the crossroads of major global regions, Papua New Guinea will continue to champion peaceful coexistence, sovereign respect, and collective security.”

MARAPE: PAPUA NEW GUINEA IS NEVER SILENT ON WEST PAPUA HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape says his government will not remain silent on human rights concerns affecting Melanesians, including the people of West Papua,  and has consistently raised these matters with Indonesia.

Mr Marape said PNG’s foreign policy “is not being overshadowed or manipulated by Indonesia” and that concerns over alleged human rights abuses in West Papua have been communicated in multiple bilateral and regional meetings over the years.

He made the remarks in Parliament in response to questions from North Fly MP Hon. James Donald, who asked why the government was quick to comment on conflicts abroad but had not taken stronger public positions on West Papua, despite reports of killings, displacement and refugees crossing into PNG’s Western and East West Sepik provinces that share common land border with Indonesia’s West Papua region.

Mr Donald said more than 15,000 West Papuan refugees have entered PNG over the years, describing the situation as breaches of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and international law. He questioned whether PNG’s “silence” could be interpreted as fear or submission to Jakarta.

Prime Minister Marape Rejects Claims PNG Is Afraid to Speak

PM Marape firmly rejected suggestions that PNG was outsourcing its foreign policy to Indonesia or reluctant to raise West Papua issues.

“There is no element of fear on our part,” he said.

Marape reflected on spending part of his childhood in the Telefomin area and in refugee camps, saying he personally understood the West Papuan struggle.

“When it comes to Melanesian human rights, James Marape or a Pangu-led government — or anyone for that matter — will always advocate for Melanesian human rights,” he said.

He stressed that PNG’s respect for Indonesia’s national sovereignty is separate from its duty to raise human rights matters.

“Sovereignty issues are different from human rights issues. We respect the full sovereign integrity of the Republic of Indonesia. But if atrocities happen in West Papua, we have every right to speak,” he said.

PNG Consistently Raises West Papua Concerns

Mr Marape said PNG had communicated its concerns at all major forums — the  United  Nations, the  Pacific  Islands  Forum,  the  Melanesian  Spearhead Group, and in private bilateral meetings.

He noted that both former Indonesian President Joko Widodo and current Pres- ident Prabowo Subianto had been briefed directly by PNG on Melanesian hu- man rights matters.

“In all diplomatic channels — whether at the United Nations, at PIF, through the MSG, or in bilateral meetings — human rights issues affecting Melanesian people are always relayed,” he said.

Marape said President Prabowo had assured him that human rights concerns “would be looked at”.

He added that PNG played a significant role in shaping the Pacific Islands Forum resolution on West Papua during the 2019 leaders’ meeting, which called for Indonesia to allow the UN Human Rights Commissioner access to the region.

Government Policy Remains Unchanged Since Independence

Marape emphasised that PNG’s foreign policy on Indonesia has remained consistent since 1975.

“We have maintained the same policy since Independence — respecting Indonesia’s sovereignty while raising concerns about human rights on the other side,” he said.

He assured Parliament that human rights issues in West Papua are “never ignored” and said PNG will continue to advocate respectfully but firmly.

Source: HERE