The current path towards independence in Bougainville started in 1989, as "a copper mine co-owned by an Australian mining company and the PNG government became the focus of conflict," peacebuilding organization specializing in the Bougainville conflict Conciliation Resources writes in this report. "The introduction of Australian and New Guinean workers caused resentment and the exploitation of the mine became increasingly intertwined with issues of indigenous identity. What began as a campaign of sabotage," the report continues, "escalated into a violent campaign for independence, resulting in the formation of both the Bougainville Revolutionary Army and a government-backed militia."

In 2001, Papua New Guinea and a Bougainville provisional goverment agreed to put an end to the armed conflict. The deal included autonomy for Bougainville, regular elections starting from 2005, and a referendum on independence between June 2015 and June 2020.

One-week vote

Polls for the 2015 election were open on Monday. The vote will be lasting at least for one week long, and results are expected by June 8th.

According to Australian broadcaster ABC correspondent in Papua New Guinea Liam Cochrane, none of the candidates is campaigning against independence, but still different opinions exist. Current Bougainville president and favourite to reelection John Momis is less enthusiastic about secession than other candidates -he was one of the fathers of the independence of Papua New Guinea. Even if not opposed to independence, Momis says Bougainville should achieve some goals before gaining independence, such as good governance, rule of law, fiscal self-reliance and weapons disposal. Wartime guns continue to circulate throughout the island.

Another three main candidates -Sam Akoitai, Ishmael Toroama and Sam Kauona- are overtly for independence. Unlike Momis, all three are excombatants. They want to hold the referendum as soon as possible. Conversely, Momis argues it would be better to wait until 2019. The president also considers it necessary to find a solution for the reopening of the Panguna mine, which has been closed since the time of the armed conflict. According to Momis, reopening the mine is critical for an independent Bougainville to be able to economically sustain itself.

Asked about the referendum outcome, former Bougainville president James Tanis says the majority of people with whom he speaks are independence supporters.