Prime Minister Hon. James Marape is attending the inauguration of the 5th Bougainville Parliament in Buka today, marking a significant milestone in the Bougainville Peace Process and the partnership between Papua New Guinea’s National Government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG).

The inauguration follows the successful 2025 Bougainville General Elections, which resulted in Hon. Ishmael Toroama’s re-election as President for a second term. During the proceedings, newly elected Members of Parliament will take their oaths of office, followed by the election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker. Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika will preside over the Parliamentary proceedings, with PNG National Parliament Deputy Speaker Hon. Koni Iguan in attendance.

High-Level Delegation

The Prime Minister is joined by key Government officials including Minister for Police and Bougainville Regional MP Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr, North Bougainville MP Hon. Francesca Semoso, Central Bougainville MP Hon. Jimmy Miringtoro, and Minister for Communications and South Bougainville MP Hon. Timothy Masiu. Australian High Commissioner His Excellency Ewen McDonald and United Nations Resident Coordinator Richard Howard are also participating in the delegation.

Ceremonial Address and Peace Agreement Commitment

Following the Parliamentary proceedings, Prime Minister Marape will join President Toroama and other leaders for an official ceremony outside Parliament, where he will address the ABG leadership and the people of Bougainville. The Prime Minister is expected to reaffirm the National Government’s commitment to the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement and emphasize the importance of continued dialogue, partnership, and mutual respect between Papua New Guinea and Bougainville.

The inauguration serves as both a ceremonial event and an opportunity to reflect on two decades of progress under the Peace Agreement. It highlights the joint efforts of both governments and their partners in maintaining stability, development, and reconciliation.

The Prime Minister’s participation demonstrates the National Government’s recognition of Bougainville’s governance achievements and its respect for the aspirations of the Bougainville people within the context of national peace and unity.