Bougainville's new President, Ishmael Toroama, says establishing law and order is essential if the autonomous region in Papua New Guinea is to prosper.
New Bougainille President, Ismael Toroama Photo: ABG
Outlining his plans in his first speech to parliament he said Bougainville's dreams of being masters of their own destiny would come to nothing if people could not behave civilly.
Toroama said the Peace Agreement had been signed, weapons had been contained and people had reconciled so there was no reason for anyone to carry guns, cause violence or behave in an unruly manner.
He called on all groups still not actively participating in Bougainville's journey to join him now.
Toroama said he would be looking for ways to combat growing lawlessness, especially drug use, homebrewing, theft and gender and family violence.
He said longer-term, more effort would be needed to ensure young people were "usefully" employed.
