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Elections in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville: 2015 General Elections

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The May 2015 general elections mark the third elections for the House of Representatives for the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), and the fourth elections for the President (including the by-election of 2008) since the Bougainville Peace Agreement was signed in August 2001. The agreement provided for elections to establish the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, which was formed after elections in 2005.

In these elections, voters will cast four separate ballots: one for the presidency and three for various types of Representatives. These consist of general Representatives, who represent a single-member constituency; women’s Representatives, who represent the interests of women from their region (North, Central and South); and former combatant members, who represent the interests of former combatants in their region.

Bougainville is poised to host a referendum within the next five years with an option for full independence from Papua New Guinea. The officials elected during the May elections will play a significant role in guiding the ABG through this process.

To help you understand this important election, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) provides Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Elections in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville: 2015 General Elections. IFES FAQs include:

  • Who are the candidates?
  • What is the structure of the government?
  • Are there any female candidates? What is the gender balance?
  • Who has the mandate to conduct the elections and how is it structured?

Download IFES' FAQs on Elections in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville: 2015 General Elections.

Learn more about IFES' program in Asia.