The DECISION That Could Change PNG Forever: Parliament's FINAL Stand?

“Great nations are not tested in moments of comfort—they are tested by the promises they choose to keep.” In this powerful parliamentary address, NCD Governor Powes Parkop urges Members of Parliament to rise above politics and lead with courage as Papua New Guinea confronts one of the most significant constitutional decisions in its history. Addressing Bougainville's 2019 Independence Referendum, he calls for a balanced approach that respects both national unity and the lasting peace achieved through the Bougainville Peace Agreement. Drawing lessons from the United Kingdom, China, Ethiopia, Scotland, Taiwan, and South Sudan, Parkop argues that nation-building is a complex journey requiring wisdom, patience, and responsible leadership. He reminds Parliament of the vision of Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and the remarkable achievement of uniting hundreds of cultures into one nation. Parkop emphasizes that peace must remain the highest priority, with every decision guided by the Constitution and the Peace Agreement. Rather than delaying responsibility, he urges the 11th Parliament to establish a clear long-term roadmap—potentially spanning 15 to 20 years—that honors the 97.7% referendum mandate while ensuring stability, lawful transition, and a stronger future for both Bougainville and Papua New Guinea. Video Timestamps: 0:00 – Leadership in a Time of Hesitation Governor Parkop acknowledges the hesitation felt by members regarding this sensitive subject. He reflects on PNG’s 50-year journey, acknowledging fears of a domino effect. However, he urges elected leaders to view this historic moment as a unique privilege and responsibility. 1:15 – Honoring the Past and Achieving Peace Reflecting on the pain and agony of the past crisis, Parkop highlights the unprecedented peace achieved since 2001. He encourages leaders to take courage from this success to define a world-class outcome for the future of both PNG and Bougainville. 2:30 – Drawing Inspiration from the Grand Chief Parkop recalls the challenges faced by Grand Chief Michael Somare in 1975. Like today, early leaders faced doubts about unifying a nation of 1,000 tribes, but through strong leadership, they crafted a country that has remained intact for 50 years. 3:45 – The Burden of the 11th Parliament He insists the current Parliament must make this decision rather than deferring to the next. Parkop compares PNG's struggle to the United Kingdom and Scotland, noting that nation-building is never perfect or complete, often requiring difficult choices and ongoing dialogue. 5:00 – Global Parallels in Nation Building Using the examples of China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, Parkop explains that struggles for unity and separation are not unique to PNG. He encourages fellow governors to face the future without fear, recognizing that nationhood often involves complex regional interests. 6:30 – Prioritizing Peace and Public Sentiment Parkop commends the Bipartisan Committee for gathering nationwide views. He emphasizes the public’s primary demand: maintaining peace and stability. He praises the goodwill shown by President Toroama and the ABG leadership in their commitment to achieving independence through peaceful, democratic means. 8:00 – Respecting the Constitutional Framework The speech highlights the importance of following the constitutional process. Parkop explains how the 1975 Constitution was amended by the 2001 Peace Agreement. He stresses that honoring this legal framework is crucial for maintaining the trust built over the last two decades. 9:30 – Deciding on Ratification and Timelines Parkop calls for a full debate and vote on the referendum result. He suggests that ratification could involve a phased process over 15 to 20 years, ensuring that any move toward full independence or an alternative arrangement is managed with careful planning. 11:00 – Final Appeal for Courageous Leadership Recalling the Grand Chief’s compromise on the Westminster system, Parkop urges MPs to act with courage. He notes that Bougainville’s aspirations date back before 1975 and concludes that leaders must finally decide the future for the sake of all people involved. #Bougainville #PowesParkop #PNGPolitics #IndependenceReferendum #NationBuilding #PeaceProcess #Sovereignty #MelanesianWay #ABG