Download 3.97 MB Mining companies, including some from Australia, that have been jostling to reopen the controversial Panguna mine in Bougainville are largely staying quiet after the region's president said the area remains off limits to would-be developers. In a statement President Ishmael Toroama said "there is a moratorium in place over Panguna as well as the surrounding areas". "The Panguna Mine remains a very sensitive issue on Bougainville and parties wishing to reopen it must maintain a sense of decorum that respects the land, the landowners and the ABG (Autonomous Bougainville Government)". Mr Toroama mentioned several mining companies but singled out the deal struck by his predecessor Father John Momis with Australian company Caballus to reopen Panguna and amend Bougainville's mining law.