Papua New Guinea will bring in former New Zealand governor-general and senior diplomat Sir Jerry Mateparae to help resolve a deep impasse over Bougainville's political future.
Sir Jerry Mateparae, the former New Zealand governor-general, has been chosen to mediate high-stake negotiations over Bougainville's push for full independence.Papua New Guinea will bring in former New Zealand governor-general and senior diplomat Sir Jerry Mateparae to help resolve a deep impasse over Bougainville's political future.
Both Papua New Guinea and the Bougainville authorities are expected to make the announcement in the coming days, although that may be disrupted by a looming vote of no confidence in Prime Minister James Marape.Constitutional lawyer Anthony Regan said Sir Jerry, who has Māori heritage, was an experienced diplomat and was widely respected in the region.
One source close to the negotiations said it was "difficult to see a way forward" from the dispute, and there was a risk the discussions could "fall over" unless a compromise was reached. "The sentiment of the people, if sits properly within that space, I think they will accept " he said.The independence referendum was a key part of a peace agreement that brought an end to a bloody civil war in the region.Professor Regan said Sir Jerry could also play a wider role in negotiating an agreement between the parties before it went to the floor of parliament.
ABG Attorney-General Ezekiel Masatt did not confirm the appointment but said the moderator would "help mediate" between both governments."Even though it was a long process to get nominations, the selection was very quick," he told the ABC's The Pacific.
Bougainville PNG Mediator Bougainville Referendum Ishmael Toroama Bougainville Civil War
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