The man coordinating preparations in Bougainville for a vote on possible independence says they are making good progress.
James Tanis, a former president, is the secretary of the Department of Referendum, Veteran Affairs and Peace.
The vote on possible independence from Papua New Guinea is due to be held in June of 2019 and the Department's role is to make sure the people are ready.
Bougainville also has to satisfy certain criteria, such as good governance and signs that illegal weapons have been removed from the community.
Mr Tanis told Don Wiseman about the nature of the work they are doing.
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Photo: RNZ