100626 Young Woman Mandated as BWF Central Bougainville Regional President

A young woman leader from Wakunai District has been elected as the new Central Bougainville Regional President of the Bougainville Women’s Federation (BWF), marking a significant step in strengthening women’s leadership in the region.

Ms. Lailah Komanos was officially declared the winner by Returning Officer Mr. Borger Semoso on Tuesday, 9 June 2026, at the Rainbow Rehabilitation Centre in Koromira, Kieta District.

Ms. Komanos secured the presidency with 16 votes, ahead of Ms. Clementina Kavori, who received four votes, and Mrs. Merolyn Kerus, who polled one vote.

Speaking after her declaration, Ms. Komanos expressed sincere gratitude to the women of Central Bougainville for placing their trust and confidence in her leadership.

“I am humbled by the confidence shown in me by the women of Central Bougainville. This mandate comes with great responsibility, and I ask for your continued support as we work together to strengthen our region,” she said.

Ms. Komanos acknowledged the challenges facing women across the region and pledged to work closely with District Presidents, women leaders, and communities to address existing gaps and advance the interests of women throughout Central Bougainville.

She emphasized that unity, collaboration, and inclusiveness would be key priorities during her term, adding that she is committed to ensuring women’s voices are heard, respected, and represented at all levels of leadership and decision-making.

The election forms part of the Bougainville Women’s Federation’s regional re-election program for Central and South Bougainville regions, which aims to renew leadership mandates through a transparent, democratic, and inclusive process while strengthening regional representation and women’s leadership across Bougainville.

The Bougainville Women’s Federation acknowledges the support of the Office of the Bougainville Electoral Commissioner for facilitating the election process and ensuring its successful conduct. On the same note, BWF also acknowledges the Abt Bougainville Partnership for their support in ensuring this election is successfully conducted.

Meanwhile, attention now turns to South Bougainville, where the regional re-election is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 11 June 2026.

The newly elected Central Bougainville Regional President, together with presidents and executives of affiliated women’s groups across the region, will be officially inducted today, Wednesday, 10 June 2026, marking the beginning of a new leadership term dedicated to advancing the interests and aspirations of women in Central Bougainville.