13 May 2020

Former rebel commander focuses on law and order in campaign

3:52 pm on 13 May 2020

A former commander in the Bougainville Revolutionary Army says he can deliver the safe environment needed to encourage investors.

Ishmael Toroama is running for president a second time - in 2015 he came a distant second to John Momis.

Ishmael Toroama speaking at PNG think-tank, The National Research Institute.

Ishmael Toroama speaking at PNG think-tank, The National Research Institute. Photo: The National Research Institute

Bougainville is due to go to elections in August after the poll was put back two months due to the Covid-19 state of emergency.

Mr Toroama puts a focus on the Bougainville Peace Agreement and its requirement that governments are transparent and accountable, that the rule of law is properly in place, and that people's human rights are realised.

Mr Toroama said the emphasis for him would be on properly establishing the rule of law so investment can be attracted and an economy developed.

He is also said the government's decision to delay the vote was illegal.

Earlier this week the Bougainville electoral office called on prospective candidates to hold off campaigning because it was causing confusion among the people.

Nominations don't open until next month.