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Executive Branch Reform: Bougainville Peace Agreement

Implementations

Executive Branch Reform – 2001

The Executive Branch reform provision is envisaged in terms of reforms that took place in order to implement the autonomy provision of the peace agreement. The majority of the reforms related to the executive branch are related to how the PNG Government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government managed to draw a line of executive power.

After signing the peace agreement in August 2001, the PNG Government worked toward establishing an Autonomous Bougainville Government. According to a BBC news report, Bougainville Affairs Minister, Moi Avei, was said to be working with other government agencies to develop plans for the establishment of the Autonomous Bougainville Government, as well as planning for reconstruction and development. Funding for such plans came from the 2002 budget.¹

“Papua New Guinea minister urges Bougainville press ahead on arms disposal,” BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific, October 15, 2001.

Executive Branch Reform – 2002

On January 23, 2002, the PNG Parliament unanimously passed the Constitutional amendments related to Bougainville. Both sides of the House were united to ensure that the proposed legislation, giving more autonomy to the Bougainville Government, remained on track for the final reading in March. The amendment also allowed for a referendum on independence to be held within 10 to 15 years.¹

On March 27, 2002, the PNG Parliament voted unanimously in favor of proposed constitutional amendment and organic law on peacebuilding in Bougainville. On that occasion, the Prime Minister, Sir Mekere Morauta, said that the government would continue to play its part in planning and preparing for the establishment of the autonomous Bougainville government.²

On September 3, 2002, Bougainville Governor, John Momis, officially announced the appointment of the Bougainville Constitutional Commission (BCC).³ The new constitution would bring substantial reform to the executive powers of the PNG government.

“Papua New Guinea: Bougainville bill clears first hurdle,” BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific, January 24, 2002.
“Papua New Guinea premier says “no turning back” on Bougainville autonomy,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, March 28, 2002.
“Papua New Guinea: Bougainville Constitutional Commission announced,” BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, September 3, 2002.

Executive Branch Reform – 2003

No information available. Constitution committee was formed in September 2002.

Executive Branch Reform – 2004

On January 14, 2004, the National Government handed over the Bougainville Autonomous Region’s constitution to the Autonomous Bougainville Government in Arawa.¹ The constitution brings executive branch reform by specifying executive powers of the PNG and the Autonomous Bougainville Government. According to Article 3 of the Bougainville Constitution, “The Autonomous Bougainville Government has jurisdiction only over the Autonomous Region of Bougainville in accordance with this Constitution and the Bougainville Peace Agreement as implemented in Part XIV (Bougainville Government and Bougainville Referendum) of the National Constitution.”

“Papua New Guinea government hands over Bougainville constitution,” BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific, January 17, 2005.