Without a doubt, Decentralisation has a conflicting taste in our mouths today. Institutionally and legally we already have decentralisation, with examples like the District Development Authorities (DDA's). Yet we are anything but decentralised in decision making, and principally in how budgets and government finances are operated.
Subsidiarity: The Other Flavour in Decentralisaon by Emmanuel Narokobi
Papua New Guinea War: The Bougainville Crisis, Referendum and Independence
The Bougainville Crisis, also known as the Bougainville Conflict or Bougainville Rebellion, was a complex and protracted armed conflict that took place on the island of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
It lasted from 1988 to 1998, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives and significant social and economic disruptions. The conflict was characterized by a struggle for autonomy and independence by Bougainvilleans, who sought greater control over their land and resources, particularly the Panguna copper mine, which was a major source of revenue for PNG.
Historical Background
Bougainville, an island province in Papua New Guinea, has a history of cultural distinctiveness from the rest of PNG. Bougainvilleans have their own languages, customs, and traditions that set them apart from the mainland.
In the 1960s, mining activities, particularly the establishment of the Panguna copper mine by a foreign company, sparked tensions between Bougainvilleans and the PNG government.
The mine brought environmental degradation, social disruption, and land disputes, leading to grievances among Bougainvilleans.
The Crisis Unfolds
In 1988, a violent conflict erupted on Bougainville, sparked by a dispute over royalties and the environmental damage caused by the Panguna mine.
The conflict escalated into a full-scale civil war, with various groups taking up arms against the PNG government forces.
The Bougainville Revolutionary Army (BRA), led by Francis Ona, fought for Bougainville's independence, while the PNG government responded with a military blockade, imposing a state of emergency and deploying armed forces to quell the rebellion.
Peace Process and Referendum
After a decade of violence, a peace process was initiated in the late 1990s, leading to the signing of the Bougainville Peace Agreement in 2001.
The Agreement provided for a phased autonomy for Bougainville and a commitment to hold a referendum on independence.
In 2019, the historic Bougainville Referendum was conducted, allowing Bougainvilleans to vote on their political future.
An overwhelming majority of 98% voted in favour of independence, reflecting the strong desire for self-determination among Bougainvilleans.
Push for Independence
The result of the Bougainville Referendum has reignited the push for independence among Bougainvilleans.
However, the path to independence is complex and faces challenges, including negotiations with the PNG government on key issues such as the:
- timing and process of independence,
- sharing of revenues from natural resources, and
- establishment of a viable and sustainable government structure in Bougainville.
Conclusion
The Bougainville Crisis has a complex history, rooted in cultural, environmental, and economic grievances. The conflict resulted in significant humanitarian impacts and loss of life.
The Bougainville Referendum was a significant milestone in the peace process, reflecting the strong desire of Bougainvilleans for independence.
All in all, many challenges remain on the path to independence, and sustained efforts are needed to ensure a peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable resolution to the Bougainville issue, taking into consideration the aspirations and interests of all stakeholders.
Revised Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates Failed to Get MPs Support
The Registry of Political Parties is gravely concern about the lack of interest by the Government to table the Revised Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates (OLIPPAC) in Parliament. The Revised OLIPPAC was approved by the National Executive Council (NEC) in March 2014 but still waiting to be tabled in Parliament. The Registry of Political Parties Dr Alphonse Gelu is concerned about the lack of interest and foresight to pass this law.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_2MIsU1mp9dpnzrxsJgrWJivCgjtEk93DffMiPnQDleU17OsGuYLOZ2J5tV6Wq2RM1j9RLVNBFH2xaJkM9wUllMa5ICS_hbLNTr3n50E8lSOVqtPgaym5l7F69DhHefy7hiIQR9mZPs/s400/PNG+OLIPPAC+revised.png)
2016 Budget Department Allocation | Top 10 Winners and Losers, IPBC Receiving an Increase of 67%
Sector
|
Appropriations
|
Appropriations
|
Difference
|
(+/-) in %
|
||
2015
(in Million K)
|
2016
(in Milion K)
|
(-) indicates CUT
|
||||
TOTAL
EXPENDITURE
|
23,454.40
|
24,059.10
|
604.70
|
3%
|
||
Economic
sector
|
497.8
|
603.4
|
105.60
|
18%
|
||
Conservation
and Environment Protection Authority
|
34.9
|
64.8
|
29.90
|
46%
|
||
Department
of Agriculture and Livestock
|
38.7
|
43.3
|
4.60
|
11%
|
||
Department
of Lands and Physical Planning
|
38.9
|
39.6
|
0.70
|
2%
|
||
Department
of Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management
|
9.7
|
11.7
|
2.00
|
17%
|
||
Department
of Petroleum and Energy
|
21.9
|
47.5
|
25.60
|
54%
|
||
Department
of Commerce and Industry
|
69.1
|
62.4
|
-6.70
|
-11%
|
||
Office
of Tourism Arts and Culture
|
2.1
|
51.8
|
49.70
|
96%
|
||
Konebada
Petroleum Park Authority
|
5.4
|
6.4
|
1.00
|
16%
|
||
Office
of Climate Change and Development
|
9.2
|
15.1
|
5.90
|
39%
|
||
Investment
Promotion Authority
|
4
|
3
|
-1.00
|
-33%
|
||
Small
& Medium Enterprises Corporation
|
3.4
|
4.6
|
1.20
|
26%
|
||
Nat
Institute of Standards and Industrial Technology
|
4.1
|
3.5
|
-0.60
|
-17%
|
||
Industrial
Centres Development Corporation
|
3.4
|
2.6
|
-0.80
|
-31%
|
||
Mineral
Resource Authority
|
54.3
|
26.4
|
-27.90
|
-106%
|
||
Kokonas
Industry Kopration
|
1.2
|
6.5
|
5.30
|
82%
|
||
National
Development Bank
|
50
|
61.5
|
11.50
|
19%
|
||
Office
of Coastal Fisheries Development Agency
|
27.9
|
25.6
|
-2.30
|
-9%
|
||
Cocoa
Coconut Institute
|
8.3
|
6.7
|
-1.60
|
-24%
|
||
PNG
National Fisheries Authority
|
20
|
1
|
-19.00
|
-1900%
|
||
Fresh
Produce Development Company
|
11.7
|
11.4
|
-0.30
|
-3%
|
||
PNG
Coffee Industry Corporation
|
3.4
|
10
|
6.60
|
66%
|
||
PNG
National Forest Authority
|
31.6
|
37.6
|
6.00
|
16%
|
||
Tourism
Promotion Authority
|
11.6
|
9.8
|
-1.80
|
-18%
|
||
PNG Oil
Palm Industry Corporation
|
0.00
|
0%
|
||||
National
Agriculture Research Institute
|
11.3
|
13.5
|
2.20
|
16%
|
||
National
Agriculture Quarantine & Inspection Authority
|
5.1
|
10.4
|
5.30
|
51%
|
||
PNG
Cocoa Board
|
4.7
|
16.8
|
12.10
|
72%
|
||
Independent
Consumer & Competition Commission
|
11.8
|
9.8
|
-2.00
|
-20%
|
||
Infrastructure
|
1,944.30
|
1,639.30
|
-305.00
|
-19%
|
||
Department
of Public Enterprises
|
8.3
|
7.8
|
-0.50
|
-6%
|
||
Department
of Information and Communication
|
17.3
|
16.7
|
-0.60
|
-4%
|
||
Department
of Transport
|
28.7
|
46.1
|
17.40
|
38%
|
||
Department
of Works & Implementation
|
1,443.20
|
1,064.40
|
-378.80
|
-36%
|
||
Papua
New Guinea Accidents InvestigationCommission
|
7.4
|
5.6
|
-1.80
|
-32%
|
||
Independent
Public Business Corporation
|
58.6
|
178.7
|
120.10
|
67%
|
||
National
Broadcasting Commission
|
43.4
|
25.2
|
-18.20
|
-72%
|
||
National
Maritime Safety Authority
|
35.1
|
40.8
|
5.70
|
14%
|
||
National
Airports Corporation
|
151
|
70.8
|
-80.20
|
-113%
|
||
National
Housing Corporation
|
0.3
|
7.2
|
6.90
|
96%
|
||
Rural
Airstrip Authority
|
5.9
|
4.5
|
-1.40
|
-31%
|
||
PNG
Power Limited
|
115.9
|
149.5
|
33.60
|
22%
|
||
Civil
Aviation Safety Authority
|
14.3
|
12.3
|
-2.00
|
-16%
|
||
National
Road Authority
|
15
|
9.5
|
-5.50
|
-58%
|
||
Social
Services
|
2,983.10
|
3,034.80
|
51.70
|
2%
|
||
Office
of Censorship
|
3.7
|
3.7
|
0.00
|
0%
|
||
Department
of Education
|
1,087.20
|
953.4
|
-133.80
|
-14%
|
||
Department
of Higher Education
|
220
|
137.2
|
-82.80
|
-60%
|
||
PNG
National Commission for UNESCO
|
4.4
|
3.1
|
-1.30
|
-42%
|
||
Milne
Bay Provincial Health Authority
|
28.5
|
29.8
|
1.30
|
4%
|
||
Western
Highlands Provincial Health Authority
|
33.8
|
32.7
|
-1.10
|
-3%
|
||
Department
of Health
|
597.9
|
620.8
|
22.90
|
4%
|
||
Hospital
Management Services
|
670.1
|
715.8
|
45.70
|
6%
|
||
Department
of Community Development
|
73.7
|
60
|
-13.70
|
-23%
|
||
National
Volunteer Services
|
2.8
|
1.9
|
-0.90
|
-47%
|
||
Eastern
Highlands Provincial Health Authority
|
31.6
|
35
|
3.40
|
10%
|
||
Office
of Urbanization
|
2
|
1.8
|
-0.20
|
-11%
|
||
PNG
Science & Technology Secretariat
|
4.2
|
4.2
|
0.00
|
0%
|
||
West
New Britain Provincial Health Authority
|
36.2
|
36.20
|
100%
|
|||
Manus
Provincial Health Authority
|
17.7
|
17.70
|
100%
|
|||
Enga
Provincial Health Authority
|
29.7
|
29.70
|
100%
|
|||
Sandaun
Provincial Health Authority
|
27
|
27.00
|
100%
|
|||
National
Research Institute
|
5.4
|
7.2
|
1.80
|
25%
|
||
University
of Papua New Guinea
|
52.9
|
77.5
|
24.60
|
32%
|
||
University
of Technology
|
47
|
65.2
|
18.20
|
28%
|
||
University
of Goroka
|
21.2
|
34.4
|
13.20
|
38%
|
||
University
of Environment & Natural Resources
|
19
|
28.6
|
9.70
|
34%
|
||
PNG
Sports Foundation
|
23
|
54.4
|
31.80
|
58%
|
||
PNG
Maritime College
|
4.5
|
4.8
|
0.30
|
6%
|
||
National
AIDS Council Secretariat
|
8.8
|
8.9
|
0.10
|
1%
|
||
Institute
of Medical Research
|
10
|
12.4
|
2.30
|
19%
|
||
National
Youth Development Authority
|
5
|
4.1
|
-0.90
|
-22%
|
||
National
Museum & Art Gallery
|
22
|
22.9
|
1.20
|
5%
|
||
National
Cultural Commission
|
5.1
|
4.7
|
-0.40
|
-9%
|
||
Law and
Order
|
1,383.20
|
1,240.80
|
-142.40
|
-11%
|
||
Office
of the Public Prosecutor
|
8.6
|
7.4
|
-1.20
|
-16%
|
||
Office
of the Public Solicitor
|
14
|
12.6
|
-1.60
|
-13%
|
||
Judiciary
Services
|
330
|
227.3
|
-102.70
|
-45%
|
||
Magisterial
Services
|
40.3
|
38.3
|
-2.00
|
-5%
|
||
Department
of Attorney-General
|
172.5
|
159.4
|
-13.10
|
-8%
|
||
Department
of Corrective Institutional Services
|
139.2
|
139.7
|
0.50
|
0%
|
||
Department
of Police
|
367.2
|
361.3
|
-5.90
|
-2%
|
||
National
Intelligence Organisation
|
5.9
|
4.7
|
-1.20
|
-26%
|
||
Department
of Defence
|
261.2
|
256.5
|
-4.70
|
-2%
|
||
Ombudsman
Commission
|
22.2
|
20.4
|
-1.80
|
-9%
|
||
Legal
Training Institute
|
13.6
|
4.9
|
-8.70
|
-178%
|
||
National
Narcotics Bureau
|
4.6
|
4.4
|
-0.20
|
-5%
|
||
Constitutional
& Law Reform Commission
|
3.7
|
4.1
|
0.40
|
10%
|
||
Administrative
|
13,022.20
|
13,878.60
|
856.40
|
6%
|
||
National
Parliament
|
165.7
|
147.5
|
-18.20
|
-12%
|
||
Office
of Governor-General
|
7.2
|
5.2
|
-2.00
|
-38%
|
||
Department
of Prime Minister & NEC
|
125.9
|
165.6
|
39.70
|
24%
|
||
National
Statistical Office
|
9.5
|
10.4
|
0.90
|
9%
|
||
Office
of Bougainville Affairs
|
5
|
3.4
|
-1.60
|
-47%
|
||
Department
of Finance
|
84.3
|
66
|
-18.30
|
-28%
|
||
Treasury
& Finance Miscellaneous
|
1,196.00
|
1,051.60
|
-144.40
|
-14%
|
||
Department
of Treasury
|
208.9
|
155.7
|
-53.20
|
-34%
|
||
Office
of the Registrar for Political Parties
|
9.2
|
7.8
|
-1.40
|
-18%
|
||
PNG
Customs Service
|
52.2
|
59.6
|
7.40
|
12%
|
||
Information
Technology Division
|
20.5
|
18.3
|
-2.20
|
-12%
|
||
Fire
Services
|
24.8
|
29
|
4.20
|
14%
|
||
PNG
Immigration and Citizenship Services
|
12.9
|
10
|
-2.90
|
-29%
|
||
Internal
Revenue Commission
|
76.6
|
75
|
-1.60
|
-2%
|
||
Department
of Foreign Affairs
|
75.8
|
60.8
|
-15.00
|
-25%
|
||
PNG
Institute of Public Administration
|
8.9
|
10.2
|
1.30
|
13%
|
||
Department
of Personnel Management
|
184.5
|
146.6
|
-37.90
|
-26%
|
||
Public
Service Commission
|
8.4
|
6.4
|
-2.00
|
-31%
|
||
Provincial
Treasuries
|
48.3
|
45.2
|
-3.10
|
-7%
|
||
Department
of National Planning and Monitoring
|
440.3
|
192.8
|
-247.50
|
-128%
|
||
Electoral
Commission
|
36.2
|
22.5
|
-13.70
|
-61%
|
||
Department
of Provincial and Local Government Affairs
|
124
|
81.7
|
-42.30
|
-52%
|
||
Department
of Industrial Relations
|
33.9
|
33.4
|
-0.50
|
-1%
|
||
National
Tripartite Consultative Council
|
1
|
0.9
|
-0.10
|
-11%
|
||
Department
of Implementation & Rural Development
|
68
|
65.6
|
-2.40
|
-4%
|
||
Central
Supply & Tenders Board
|
2.8
|
2.7
|
-0.10
|
-4%
|
||
Treasury
and Finance - Public Debt Charges
|
9,924.60
|
11,330.00
|
1,405.40
|
12%
|
||
Office
of the Auditor General
|
29
|
23.9
|
-5.10
|
-21%
|
||
National
Training Council
|
16.7
|
40.1
|
23.40
|
58%
|
||
National
Economic & Fiscal Commission
|
4.2
|
3.5
|
-0.70
|
-20%
|
||
Border
Development Authority
|
16.9
|
7.1
|
-9.80
|
-138%
|
||