Samb visits Buin
Minister for State Assisting the Prime Minister on Bougainville matters and Sports, Hon. Willson Samb was in Buin on Sunday, 28th October to network with leaders and discuss current issues on the ground.
His short stay at Buin received many positive remarks from the ABG leaders.
Chief Secretary to the Autonomous Bougainville Government, Joseph Nobetau commended the spirit of good will and partnership demonstrated at recent meetings between the National Government and key leaders with the ABG.
Mr Nobetau, noted the significance of the visit by the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Bougainville, the Hon William Samb MP.
In addressing leaders, Minister Samb emphasized his very strong commitment to ensure that the referendum takes place and to work alongside ABG counterparts to promote a free and fair referendum.
He challenged all National Parliament Bougainville MPs to ensure that they work steadfastly in ensuring that factual information is provided to the people of the Region before the referendum takes place.
The Minister also noted the need for continued consultation on outstanding funding issues and for all stakeholders to work closely with the national Coordination Office for Bougainville Affairs’ to ensure that duplication of effort is minimized and that referendum and peace activities are managed in an efficient manner.
Member for South Bougainville, the Hon. Timothy Masiu commended Minister Samb for the taking the initiative to visit Bougainville and said that it was a clear sign of things moving forward for the Region.
ABG Minister for Peace Agreement Implementation, the Hon. Albert Punghau MHR echoed comments made by Mr Masiu, noting the significant progress now being made in preparation for the referendum.
Member for Baubauke Constituency and ABG Minister for Community Government, the Hon. Jacob Tooke MHR also commended Minister Samb for taking the time to visit Buin and South Bougainville and emphasized on the need for enhanced service delivery and development within the Region.
Chief Secretary Joseph Nobetau also advised Hon. Willson Samb of the challenges encountered in the region.
“With the very real and significant dialogue that has taken place in Buin we have been able to alert Minister Samb about the challenges, issues and dynamics that face Bougainville. We have been able to emphasize the need for critical development projects, particularly within South Bougainville, where issues such as border security and trade remain a high priority for both the National Government and the ABG,” Mr Nobetau said.
Mr Nobetau thanked Minister Samb and the ABG leaders for their strong engagement and indicated that it was his hope, that as the referendum approaches, there would be continued discussions and awareness, to advance the interests of the people of Bougainville and to ensure a fair and successful referendum outcome.
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