Papua New Guinea, Nov. 23 -- By Makereta Komai, PACNEWS Editor in Buka, Bougainville

Autonomous Bougainville Government President, Grand Chief Dr John Momis has hinted a possible five year time-line to negotiate possible independence from Papua New Guinea for the people of Bougainville.

After casting his ballot, in the historical referendum vote Saturday, Dr Momis was 'confident' the outcome of the vote will be overwhelmingly in favour of choice #2 - to vote independence from PNG.

"Bougainville is on the verge of freedom and our dream is to liberat

e our people and help them to be free to decide and manage their own affairs and protect and promote the collective interests of Bougainvilleans.

"In principle we should not rush but allow...