Source: Special Correspondent in Bougainville

As Bougainville moves towards self-determination, unity across the region is critical for a stable autonomous state when referendum time comes. Currently, indicators point out otherwise of the present condition. The authorities and factions on the ground are on different sides of the table. With Momis’ ABG working closely with Australia through AusAid and BCL, and standing on the other side of the table is the traditional Mekamui Unity Government, however also has issues of unity within the faction. On top of that there are the former combatants, commanders and Musingku’s Kingdom of Papala who are also well armed and making their stand in whatever accord they are in. 

Noticeably the direction Bougainville is heading is a risky one, and right at the centre of it all is, yes, the infamous move to reopen the mine. Currently in Bougainville, the question of ‘who holds the trump card’ in power play is a tricky one. ABG, though the conventionally recognized by the outside world, is not as recognized by its own people on the island, who very much view the government as a promoter of outside interests and not of the people. The Mekamui, a self-style traditional establishment with a well-armed defense force commanded by Chris Uma and Moses Pipiro, still guard the Panguna mine to this day. Then there are the other forces existing on their own, Ismael Toroama and his ‘boys’, Noah Musingku and his proclaimed kingdom of Papala in Tonu, and other factions that are still operating today.

Panguna mine, majority say it should never reopen whilst the greedy few say otherwise.

ABG has been doing the legal work in preparation for a reopening it has been anticipating, however, there is nothing to show for on the ground in Panguna. The Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill’s visit in January brought a sign of progress for reopening; however, the move became stale until the recent passing of the contentious Transitional Mining Act on the 08^th of August this year. Surprisingly, BCL chairman Peter Taylor implied that the act was not conducive to BCL ever coming back to Bougainville. If this is a publicity stunt to fool the people or a real show of concern from the chairman, the ‘funny’ law language which Momis thinks is will prove itself in time.

The arm wrestle continues, however what is apparent of this contest is the disunity that the mining issue is bringing to Bougainville. Moreover, ignorance is also a major contributor to this issue, and if leaders turn a blind eye to the people, the people will eventually take it into their hands to solve the problem, like they did 26 years ago under Francis Ona and the BRA. The leaders in all have to wake up and get their act together.