[3] Mutual concerns about security on the island and the Republic's failure to achieve any international recognition eventually led to talks between the PNG Government and the secessionist leader.

[3] The chairmanship of the North Solomons interim government was initially offered to Bougainville district commissioner Alexis Sarei, who declined on the grounds that he could not commit to the role full-time due to family matters.

The other members of the executive were Hanao Tato, Clement Dana, Asurei Tolovai, John Dakeni, Raphael Bele, Aloysius Noga, and Anthony Anugu.

A number of public servants were engaged as assistants to Sarei, including Moses Havini, Thomas Anis, Simon Tania, Joseph Noro, James Dogel, and John Dove.

It was reported that the breakaway government had been evicted from Arawa House and relocated to the Catholic mission at Tunuru, where they had established offices in a converted maternity ward.