Sunday, April 25, 2021

37th commemoration-The death of Arnold A

37th commemoration-The death of Arnold Ap

Arnold Ap was a West Papuan cultural leader, anthropologist and musician. He was the leader of the group Mambesak, and Curator of the Cenderawasih University Museum. He also broadcast Papuan culture on a weekly radio show. His Mambesak music is still very popular and his songs are regarded as symbols of Papuan cultural identity and continues to be an integral part of the West Papuan resistance. At the time Indonesian officials were trying to crush Papuan identity and their music and dance became key weapons in the West Papuan Peoples nonviolent struggle for cultural survival.

Arnold Ap, who is believed to have been killed by Kopassus soldiers 37 years ago on the 26 April 1984. According to the military he was shot in the back while trying to escape although many believe he was executed. He was arrested by Kopassus troops In November 1983, imprisoned and tortured for suspected sympathies with the Free Papua Movement.

Photo from Jubi 24 April 2013

In 2016 supporters in Sydney added his name to the Honour Roll at Marrickville Community Centre.

As Anzac Day is commemorated yearly on the 25th April, we should also remember those who died struggling for their freedom in our region. Lest we forget.