PM calls for sensitivity

Prime Minister James Marape in his opening speech on the 2019 Referendum issue in parliament today reminded members on the sensitivity of the matter.

He also stressed that while all the members discuss and further decide on Bougainville's future, the outcome must be a win win for both PNG and Bougainville.

The debate continues tomorrow allowing members to contribute to the discussion.

PM Marape said because it is very important, they have suspended question time and will speak again tomorrow.

“There'll be only one business for the petroleum minister tomorrow. But we'll go through this matter and subject to concurrence with the autonomous Bougainville leadership, we'll decide on a date in which we will take a vote on this one.”

“Let's ponder on some of this discussion and let's find something that doesn't hurt Bougainville's aspiration for self-determination but at the same time assists me and future Prime Ministers the ability to hold this diversity called Papua New Guinea together.” PM Marape said.