Papua New Guinea, Nov. 26 -- By Makereta Komai, PACNEWS Editor in Buka, Bougainville

A former leader of the Bougainville Revolutionary Army (BRA) in exile but now back in Bougainville, Martin Miriori is urging Pacific nations particularly the countries of Melanesia to step up and support the people of Bougainville in their decision for greater autonomy or independence from PNG.

"There will be no turning back, when the votes are counted and the decision made in a few weeks' time. When Bougainville will eventually become a new nation, it will need the support of its neighbouring Pacific nations, said Miriori.

Miriori lived in self-exile with his family in the Netherlands from 1996-2007 where he led the international lobby and human right...