Peterson Tseraha | PNG Loop
The Autonomous Bougainville Government Minister for Mining has cleared the air on some issues regarding Panguna mine reopening and about the land owners.
Speaking at a ceremony conducted in Panguna last week Mining Minister Robin Wilson welcomed the Mekamui Government of Unity on board the whole peace process, leading up to the referendum and eventually Independence for Bougainville.
“This is a clear sign of working in unity and I am sure now that there isn’t any more mistrust among ourselves now. We have a road map to follow and we’re on it right now,’’ Mr Wilson said.
“First and foremost I would like to make this clear that the whole of Bougainville and PNG are puzzled about the compensation payment dating back to the 80s and the Bel kol are two different things all together and we mustn’t get ourselves confused.
“Before talking about anything concerning mining we have to consult all stake holders, that’s the whole reason now why people are confused about these two issues concerning payments for land owners and the Bel kol,’’ Mr Wilson said.
Meanwhile the minister said that the people of Panguna had been suppressed and blocked so the first thing was to free them to participate equally with the rest of Bougainville.
“Give the people of Panguna a chance now and then they will join us to get to where we’re trying to get to right now,’’ he said.
“I also would like to thank the Mekamui government of unity under the leadership of Philip Miriori and Philip Takaung, also the Mekamui Defence Force Commander Moses Pipiro for this historic occasion, as leaders of Panguna that means the whole of Panguna will be following their leaders to join this peace march,” Mr Wilson said.
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