by Fabian Hakalits – EM TV News, Buka
Newly elected members of the Bougainville House of Representatives were officially sworn into office today.
The Swearing In ceremony was witnessed by Acting Prime Minister, Grand Chief Leo Dion, National Government Representatives, Foreign Mission Representatives and the people of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.
The third house is led by the elected President, Chief Dr John Momis.
A new dawn for Bougainville as the 10th anniversary of autonomy was commemorated marking the formation of Papua New Guinea’s Autonomous Government since 2005.
The PNG National Flag and Bougainville flags were raised this morning at the Buka Airport, welcoming the high-powered delegation led by Acting Prime Minister Leo Dion, into the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.
At the Bougainville House of Representatives, the 40 newly elected members were ‘Sworn In’ and signed the instruments, witnessed by Chief Justice, Sir Salamo Injia.
The ceremony was witnessed by Acting Prime Minister, Grand Chief Leo Dion, National Government Representatives, Foreign Mission Representatives and the people of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.
The third house that will be led by the elected President, Chief Dr. John Momis.
The anniversary celebrations continued at Hutjena Oval in Buka, beginning with the raising of the flag.
It followed with the parade by the Bougainville Police Service that was inspected by Grand Chief Leo Dion.
One of PNG’s political leaders involved in Bougainville issues, Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, was proud to celebrate with Bougainvilleans on this day.
Sir Michael congratulated the Autonomous Bougainville Government for setting the benchmark with the government process, like the successful conduct of the general election.
With the referendum sign post, Bougainville President, Chief Dr John Momis, is adamant both governments, will work together under the Bougainville Peace Agreement, to improve the future.
Acting Prime Minister, Grand Chief Leo Dion, said peace must be maintained in the lead up towards referendum and the National Government will continue to support Bougainville.
The challenge now put forward is for the leaders of both governments to work together for the advancement of Bougainville.
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