Bougainville Revolutionary Army Factions bury 17 years of differences to bring stability
From POST COURIER
BUKA, PNG --- In an historic occasion, three key former Bougainville Revolutionary Army (BRA) Commanders put aside their differences to reconcile in the interest of Bougainville after 17 years of hostility.
The three are ex-BRA kingpin Ishmael Toroama, Moses Pipiro from the Me’ekamui Unity Government and Chris Uma from the original Me’ekamui faction.
They were followers of late revolutionary leader Francis Ona who ignited the 10-year Bougainville Civil War in protest against the Panguna copper mine operated by Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL).
The reconciliation has opened up a new and positive chapter for Bougainville’s future.
The split between the three came in 1996 at Roreinang Mission when BRA strongman Joseph Kabui, later to become the first Autonomous Bougainville Government President, led a team to the negotiation table with the Papua New Guinea Government to find a non-military solution to the war.
The move was vehemently opposed by late Francis Ona who refused to negotiate. The result was the establishment of the Me’ekamui Government.
Pipiro then broke away from the original Me’ekamui commanded by Uma and formed the Me’ekamui Unity Government with Philip Miriori. Toroama maintained a pro-ABG stance.
The split resulted in numerous altercations which continued until recently and potentially threatened the peace process.
With yesterday’s reconciliation, this is now a thing of the past and a step forward for Bougainville’s peace process.
The historic event saw a customary ritual performed to signify peace and unity among the three warlords. They signed a Memorandum of Agreement to work hand in hand for the future of Bougainville.
The ceremony was witnessed by ABG Vice President Patrick Nisira and ministers, United Nations representatives and other donor agencies.
“I stand united with you today,” Pipiro said.
“This is the way forward for all of us. We must be united.”
Uma said unification is the only way forward.
He thanked all former fighters and assured the people of Bougainville this reconciliation will bear fruit in the near future.
Whilst the reconciliation bodes well for the Panguna Mine re-opening, the three said the re-opening of the mine must be sanctioned by the people of Bougainville and not by them as individuals.
Toroama reminded the people of Bougainville that the reconciliation does not guarantee the Panguna Mine will be opened, however said it will give safe passage to people or investors “who want to come and explore our beautiful island”.
And Pipiro stood by his stated claim of K10 billion compensation from BCL before the mine can be opened.
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