Alongside Dr Momis in the caretaker government is the member for Halia and former vice president, Patrick Nisira, and the member for Peit, Josephine Surei Getsi.

Mr Nisira was sworn in as vice president of the caretaker government and Ms Getsi was sworn in as women’s representative.

Dr Momis said the people of Bougainville and his government must work together in a collaborative way to achieve the common good.

He said the Bougainville Peace Agreement is the roadmap and the people of Bougainville and their new government will need to work together to fulfil the peace process so Bougainville can reach self-determination in a peaceful way.

Meanwhile, the question as to who will be Speaker is a hot topic of discussion around Buka. The Speaker is appointed by the 40 elected members of parliament from outside parliament.

Twelve of the 16 seats in North Bougainville were won by Dr Momis’s New Bougainville Party. This is likely to have a big influence on the Speaker’s appointment but is up to all members to make the final decision.

It seems definite that Patrick Nisira will be re-appointed vice-president and, like Dr Momis’s re-election as president, this will be very good for continuity in the government. Otherwise, it is said, lobbying for the position of the Vice President would be like hot chili on rice.

The election of Josephine Getsi as member for Peit is a historical moment in Bougainville as she is the first woman to be elected a member of parliament in an open seat.

Her selection as women’s representative in the caretaker government indicates a ministry for her when positions are allocated.

According to the Constitution at least one woman must be given a cabinet portfolio.

Most of the people of Bougainville are happy with the caretaker government and look forward to the formation of the coming together of the new parliament.

An inaugural mass is planned for Sunday, and it will be presided over by Bishop Unabali of Bougainville Diocese and will be concelebrated by ministers and pastors from all denominations in the province.

The event will officially mark the beginning of the Third House of Representatives and Bougainville’s journey towards a referendum on the form of its future political identity.