Autonomous Region of Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama, in his New Year speech to the people of Bougainville, highlighted that 2026 marks another important step in Bougainville’s journey towards political independence.

He expressed deep gratitude to the citizens for their continued confidence in his leadership and the government’s shared vision of a sovereign, prosperous, and well-governed Bougainville.

“Our people have already declared their choice for an independent Bougainville, through the Melanesian Agreement, we continue to work with the National Government to ensure the will of our people is properly recognized and endorsed.”

“Your government remains firm and consistent in pursuing this political agenda.”

President Toroama said that all must continue to build the economic foundation of their future nation, the reopening of Panguna, the establishment of the Bougainville Gold Refinery, and the development of agriculture, fisheries and other productive sectors will strengthen our domestic revenue and create opportunities for our people.

“Economic independence begins at the family, community and government levels, and I encourage all Bougainvilleans to work hard and participate meaningfully in our economy.”

"Good governance remains central to our nation-building efforts, strong leadership, ethical behaviour, discipline, transparency and accountability must guide both government and the public service."

He also mentioned in his inaugural statement, that there will be reforms introduced in performance management for all senior leadership, and there will be no room for complacency both at the political and administrative level.

The measure of Bougainville’s success must always be seen in the improvement of its people’s lives - there will be no other way around this.

Bougainville has set a long-term vision to become a high-income, educated, healthy, peaceful and Christian sovereign nation by 2052.

“Through the Bougainville Nation Building Strategy, my government will continue to align all sectors to this shared vision, ensuring that no part of Bougainville is left behind in our political and development journey.”

“As we enter this New Year, I call upon all leaders, Constituency and Regional Members and their respective community governments, public servants, churches, civil society, business houses, landowners, communities and families to work together in unity and goodwill,” he added.

Furthermore, President Toroama reminds all to uphold peace, respect laws, strengthen the governance systems and prepare to take their rightful place as a sovereign nation.

“May this New Year bring renewed hope, stability and progress for our people and may God bless Bougainville.”