A former Bougainville president, who wants the role again, has welcomed the large number of candidates seeking the position in next month's election.
There are 25 people vying to step into the shoes vacated by John Momis after ten years.
James Tanis and John Momis Photo: Facebook
James Tanis, who was president for 18 months from 2008, says the record number poses no problem for the candidates.
He says they are working together, having held combined rallies in north, central and southern Bougainville, while helping each other with logistics and to address issues raised by the audiences.
The candidates come from a wide range of careers and this has delighted Mr Tanis.
"What is important in the 25 candidates is that I am actually very happy that this election has thrown out into the public view the quality and the number of people available to be presidents."
Bougainville presidential candidate James Tanis.
