Weapons disposal

Dennis Kuiai, acting secretary of the Department of Bougainville Peace Agreement and Implementation (DBPAI), said during a recent media conference in Buka that more former combatants have joined the community peace efforts – a positive move towards the conduct of the crucial Referendum set for 2019.

“Former combatants just like any other Bougainvilleans have the moral obligation to get rid of their weapons,” he said.

Kuiai stated it was important for a free and fair election come June 15^th, 2019.

This was a significant move towards a free and fair election in the coming Bougainville Referendum.

The ceremony took place last week at the Emeu District Station in Siwai District of South Bougainville.

Former combatants from the area came together to reconcile and strengthen unity.

It was a stage 5 of weapon disposal and reconciliation – a final stage 6 will be held later in the year.

Chairman of the Siwai District Peace Committee, Peter Tengka, thanked South Bougainville MP, Timothy Masiu, for contributing K20,000 towards the event.