Bougainville stabilises leadership with permanent CEO appointment
Having reported the death of its CEO Johnny Patterson Auna in August 2025, ASX-listed Bougainville Copper has appointed chairperson Melchior Togolo in his stead in a permanent capacity effective immediately.
Togolo had served as acting CEO since August last year, with his permanent appointment now providing the company with greater stability and stronger leadership continuity.
In an address to shareholders issued on May 21, Togolo said the past year marked one of significant transition for Bougainville, including changes in shareholding and leadership, while continuing to meet its exploration licence obligations and undertakings.
“Looking ahead, our future role in the redevelopment of Panguna will continue to be influenced by decisions of the ABG in its dual capacity as mining regulator and majority shareholder. We remain focused on progressing exploration activities responsibly and in the best interest of all our shareholders and the people of Bougainville,” he stated.
Bougainville is working to restart the Panguna project, in Papua New Guinea, which produced concentrate containing three-million tonnes of copper in the 17 years prior to 1989.
