2 Feb 2010

Mekamui backs Momis for Bougainville presidency

1:50 pm on 2 February 2010

Part of the militant Mekamui group in the Papua New Guinea province of Bougainville is supporting a former governor, John Momis, in his bid for the presidency of the Autonomous Bougainville Government.

The province is to hold elections in April and May.

The Post Courier newspaper says members of Mekamui met Mr Momis last week and expressed concern at the current administration's failure to work with the various factions in the province.

The Mekamui group says the government should pursue good governance initiatives and revisit the peace process, particularly issues of weapons disposal and law and order.

The paper quotes the faction as saying Mr Momis is the true leader chosen by God to steer the government.

They say they are ready to work with him and that his election will lead to roadblocks on the main island being removed.

Mr Momis ran second in the poll in 2005 behind the late Joseph Kabui.

On that occasion elements of the Mekamui had campaigned against Mr Momis, who later became the PNG Ambassador to Beijing.