The South Bougainville Veteran’s Association leader has claimed that there hasn’t been any recognition given to those that fought during the crisis.
The leader, Thomas Tari in an interview with EMTV, said no acknowledgment has been made so far by the National and Autonomous Bougainville Governments, relating to this matter.
Not much recognition has been given to the local fighters that fought during the Bougainville Crisis.
It has been a struggle for most, retreating from the blood of cold war and destruction, some even traumatized; a direct result of the conflict, as Tari outlines.
The formed Veterans Association Division in Bougainville is functional, but hasn’t fulfilled its purposes to look after the ex-fighters' welfare.
Tari is worried, as this might be one hindrance to referendum; the decider to Bougainville’s future political status.
It’s still uncertain today, whether the fighters will be rewarded or not, but that’s something both government’s will work on.
Despite that, Tari says the South Bougainville Veterans Association is working closely with the law enforcing agencies to curb lawlessness in the area.
However to maintain a lasting peace in the communities, this needs a collaborative effort from the government authorities.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=KhnwR6Y8w5A%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26wmode%3Dopaque%26showinfo%3D0%26showsearch%3D0%26rel%3D0
