Australia West Papua Association (Sydney)
Season’s Greetings
There was no improvement in the human rights situation in West Papua. The security forces arrested peaceful activists who were commemorating days of significance, the 1st December and International Human Rights Day.
In Sorong on the 1st December the police dispersed the crowd forcefully using tear gas and at a rally in Manokwari on the 10th December (World Human Rights Day), the rally ended in clashes with the security forces resulting in a number of individuals being struck by police.
Clashes also continued between the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) and the Indonesian security forces with causalities on both sides. The latest clash occurred on the 25 December when two soldiers were shot at the Bousha border security post, South Aifat District. One died, the other wounded.
The Star reported (Friday 29 Dec 2023) that the Indonesian Military (TNI) had formed a team to catch the armed group believed to be responsible for the fatal attack on the military on Monday (Dec 25), Christmas Day.
Indonesian Military soldiers take part in a ceremony at Sultan Iskandar Muda Air Force base in Blang Bintang, Aceh, on Dec 12, 2023, before travelling to Papua for deployment in security operations.- AFP
Papuan leader Lukas Enembe died, while in an Indonesian military hospital
Former Papua governor Lukas Enembe died on Tuesday 26th December while receiving treatment for kidney failure at Gatot Subroto Army Hospital. His body was flown back to Papua early on Thursday amid tightened security measures. In October, Lukas was sentenced to eight years in prison with a fine of 500 million rupiah and ordered to pay 19.8 billion rupiah in state compensation. He was named as a suspect by the country’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in 2022 for graft involving 1 billion rupiah (US$65,000). He allegedly received gratuities from a private entity that wanted to win a goods and services procurement contract bid.
Papuans saw him as a leader, bringing hope to Papuans, providing education and opportunities for development. Thousands of people accompanied the funeral procession escorted by the police. The Jayapura Police Chief, Victor Mackbon, reported deploying 1,500 personnel to ensure order during the funeral
However, tension escalated as a sizable crowd clashed with security officials at Jayapura's airport when the casket carrying the late former Papua Governor arrived on Thursday. According to a report in AsiaToday (28 December 2023), 25 shops in the Perumnas area were burned including 1 car, 5 vehicles were heavily damaged and 2 buildings damaged.
https://asiatoday.id/read/jayapura-city-is-stunning-25-shops-burned-by-mobs
According to the Papua Police Chief Inspector General Mathius D. Fakhiri, 14 people were injured as a result of the chaos that occurred “There were 14 injured victims, including the Acting Governor of Papua Province Dr. Muhammad Ridwan Rudalamun, 8 security officers and 5 members of the public,” Mathius told reporters, Friday (28/12/2023). The Commander of the Regional Military Command blamed members of the KNPB for the riot but a spokesperson for the KNPB denied this.
It was also reported that a group of people calling themselves the Nusantara Group had vandalized and burned the shophouses along the road in Waena. The group also patrolled around the city carrying out vehicle checks and threatening Papuans.
(In Jakarta Post)
Photo in Jubi
The crowd was carrying the body of former Papuan Governor Lukas Enembe in Sentani to the STAKIN field. -Jubi/Engel Wally
In AsiaToday. Shops in Jayapura City were burned by mobs.
Benny Giay remembering Lukas Enembe’s legacy, reflecting on challenges within Papua’s political landscape
Jubi News Desk - Lukas Enembe Passed Away 28 December 2023
Jayapura, Jubi – Papua figure Rev. Benny Giay deeply mourned over the passing of former Governor Lukas Enembe on Tuesday, December 26, 2023. Giay urges the Papuan community to remain calm and focused on honoring Lukas Enembe, a great leader who contributed significantly to Papua. “Let us honor this great leader of ours, by receiving him well, and burying him with dignity. When we receive a departed soul, it’s our chance to remember the good things they have done. After that, let us continue the good deeds he wished to accomplish but could not finish; let us carry them forward,” Giay told Jubi on Tuesday. Lukas Enembe passed away at the Gatot Soebroto Army Central Hospital in Jakarta on Tuesday due to kidney failure, according to Enembe’s lawyer, Petrus Bala Pattyona. Benny Giay admitted being deeply shocked by the news of Enembe’s passing. “The news shook us. We were not prepared [for it]. Last night we were talking with several members of the Papua Legislative Council, hoping for Lukas Enembe’s speedy recovery. But this afternoon, we received news of his death. It is a heavy blow for us,” Giay stated. Giay regarded Lukas Enembe as a significant leader who initiated development in Papua, even in the most remote regions. “Since Mr. Lukas Enembe became Governor in 2013 until his tenure ended, he was the driving force of development [in Papua]. He initiated movements to uplift his people, bringing hope to us,” he remarked.
According to Giay, Enembe made significant strides that would be recorded in history.
“I believe the majority of the community, including myself, appreciate many things, including hosting the National Sports Week XX in Papua, extending development to remote areas that were untouched before 2013,” he added. Benny Giay also praised Lukas Enembe’s attention to providing education to Indigenous Papuans. “His attention to education, sending indigenous Papuan students abroad, even though I have heard that Papuan students abroad face difficulties now. I think he was quite energetic. We lose him in that aspect,” Giay mentioned. He also considered Enembe a figure who remained courageous and critical despite holding the position of Governor. “His critical voice as an official shows that his conscience was not silenced by bureaucracy, a Governor who worked with his heart,” Giay stated.
He further asserted that Lukas Enembe was the first Governor of Papua from the central mountainous region, an area with limited access and facing various challenges in education and healthcare services. For Giay, Enembe’s political career achievements in reaching the Governorship were extraordinary. “For us mountain people, he was an important Governor of Papua because previously, all Governors were not from the mountains. Throughout his 20-year political career, he did remarkable things. As a two-term Governor of Papua, he showed how someone from the mountains could sit in Dok II (the center of governance in Papua). Looking at Enembe, considering the fact that he had work, during two terms, he left his mark there,” Giay expressed.
Giay did not deny that Lukas Enembe was shadowed by corruption allegations. However, Giay reminded that Enembe became Governor of Papua in a financial management system that was already broken, making it difficult for anyone within the system to escape the shadow of corruption. “It is good to criticize those in office. But we have to accept that our officials, including those who become Governor of Papua, they exist within a corrupt and rampant corruption system. Even the Corruption Eradication Commission chair (Firli Bahuri) is corrupt. Papua’s elite suffers within this broken system,” said Benny Giay. (*)
On the 1st December we commemorate West Papuan National Flag day or National day. The 1st December this year marked the 62nd anniversary of the first official flying of the Morning Star flag in 1961, in the then Dutch colony of Netherlands New Guinea.
As Dutch were finally about to give the West Papuan people their freedom. However, it is one of the great tragedies that at their moment of freedom it was cruelly crushed and West Papua was basically handed over to Indonesia in 1963 by the international community. A betrayal of a whole people.
In West Papua, in Indonesia and around the world , West Papuans and their supporters held flag raising events to commemorate the first official flying of the Morning Star flag in West Papua.
Sydney
The Australia West Papua Association thanks the Inner West Council in Sydney for supporting the raising of the West Papuan National Flag on its Leichhardt Town Hall on the 1st December . This is the 17th year in a row that the flag has been raised on the Leichhardt Town Hall.
Photos of 1st December flag raising at Leichhardt Town Hall.
https://awpasydneynews.blogspot.com/2023/11/photos-of-1st-december-flag-raising-at.html
Flag raising also at Indonesian consulate Sydney
Police disperse Papuans commemorating political rights in Sorong City, use tear gas
Jubi 5 December 2023
Wamena, Jubi – Members of the Papuan People’s Alliance in Sorong City, Southwest Papua, organized a rally on December 1, 2023, commemorating the Papuan people’s political rights declaration on December 1, 1961. The event took place at Klademak III B or Achmad Yani Street, near Ramayana Mall Sorong City.
According to the chronology provided by the Papua Legal Aid Institute (LBH Papua), the rally started peacefully at 10 a.m. Papua time with security forces present. However, at 11:15 a.m., the Sorong City Police attempted negotiations, requesting protesters to voice their opinions until 1 p.m. only, citing an upcoming Santa Claus carnival organized by the Sorong City Government. Unfortunately, negotiations broke down as the people continued their actions, leading to police dispersing the crowd forcefully with tear gas at 1:10 p.m. Francisco Raymond Mofu from the Sorong Office of LBH Papua confirmed that following the tear gas deployment, there was retaliation from the people who threw objects at the police.
The tear gas affected nearby residents, including children, toddlers, and the elderly in residential areas. By 2 p.m., negotiations ensued between the police, the mass, and affected residents, ultimately resulting in the dispersal of all parties from the rally site.
The LBH Papua expressed its disappointment over the police’s handling of the situation, labeling it an abuse of the right to peaceful expression. Emanuel Gobay, Director of the Papua Legal Aid Institute, criticized the use of tear gas in dispersing a peaceful rally. He highlighted the misuse of protocols resulting in injuries to people and the improper use of firearms, which is prohibited under Emergency Law No. 12/1951.
In response to these incidents, LBH Papua urged the National Police to investigate and prosecute those responsible for misusing tear gas guns and violating the rights of peaceful protesters.
Meanwhile, spokesperson of the West Papua Police Sr. Comr. Pol Adam Erwindi clarified that the clash erupted when protesters refused to disperse despite warnings, blocking the road. He stated that security personnel attempted to disperse the crowd, but objects were thrown at them, prompting the use of tear gas at 1:20 p.m. The entire demonstration concluded by 2:20 p.m.
KNPB across Papua commemorates 62 years of Papua’s struggle for independence. Jubi News Desk - Commemorating December 1
5 December 2023
The Regional Executive Board of the West Papua National Committee or BPW KNPB commemorated the events of December 1, 1961 with a worship service at the Yalimu KNPB Secretariat in Yalimo Regency, Mountainous Papua Province, Friday (1/12/2023). - Doc. KNPB Yalimu
Nabire, Jubi – The West Papua National Committee (KNPB) in various regions marked the 62nd anniversary of Papua’s struggle for independence that was started on December 1, 1961. Distinct events echoing the historical significance of the West Papuan nation’s inception and its ongoing struggle for independence. In Yalimo Regency, the KNPB Yalimo observed the occasion with a worship service at its secretariat. This gathering, attended by activists from various movements, including the New Guinea Raad Yalimu and the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) Yaligem Kodam, featured Elder L Wandik leading the service and citing Deuteronomy 19:14 regarding inherited rights.
The ceremony involved KNPB activists lighting candles and jointly cutting a birthday cake. Theo Loho from KNPB Yalimo highlighted the symbolic significance, emphasizing that the lit candles and the united act of cake-cutting represented the continuous spirit of struggle until Papuan independence was achieved. Similarly, the KNPB Sentani in Jayapura Regency held a discussion to commemorate the historic day. Sadracks Lagowan, the spokesperson of the Sentani Regional Executive Board, disclosed that the discussion centered on the West Papuan nation’s historical struggle between 1951 and 1971, underscoring the critical role of understanding this history as a cornerstone for the Papuan nation’s journey towards independence.
Lagowan stressed the importance of using historical awareness as a guide for the current generation’s efforts to achieve democratic independence. The discussion, facilitated by the KNPB Sentani Diplomacy Commissariat, concluded after two hours, culminating in prayers, coffee, and group photos. (*)
Nationalist thugs attack Papua student rally in Kupang marking December 1
Detik News – December 1, 2023
Yufengki Bria, Kupang – A protest action by scores Papuan students in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, has ended in chaos. The students were attacked and assaulted by an ormas(social or mass organisation) then arrested by police.
The demonstration took place on Jalan Piet A Tallo on Friday December 1. The students held the action to commemorate the anniversary of Papua's declaration of independence.
Members of nationalist group harassing Papuan students in Kupang – December 4, 2023 (Detik)
In the middle of the protest action, the students were approached my members of the ormasGarda Flobamora and Garuda and were ordered to stop giving speeches. Chaos brought out until the Papuan demonstrators were arrested and taken to the municipal police (Polresta) headquarters.
"We're at Polresta for the moment. We were forcibly disbursed and assaulted by the ormasGaruda", said action coordinator Yerri Wali. Wali explained that the arrests began when two people suspected of being intelligence officers arrived in a white vehicle at around 9.07 am to observe the demonstration.
Then at 9.15 am, around 50 people from the Garuda ormas arrived and an angry debate ensured that ended in an enraged assault on the protesters resulting in several demonstrators having their clothing torn. In addition to this, one of the demonstrators named Ririn fell unconscious after being hit. Another protester, Jek, was also hit in the mouth resulting in a split lip. They were then taken to the Kupang municipal police headquarters. "It was then that we were all injured and suffered bruises to the head, face and mouths", said Wali.
Kupang municipal police public relations chief Second Deputy Police Inspector Florensi Ibrahim Lapuisaly has confirmed the arrests, although he suggested contacting the Kupang municipal police headquarters directly.
"There was indeed information (about arrests) but I don’t' know how many were arrested. Because me and the Pak [head of] Kapolresta were still at a Friday Curhat activity in Oepura village", said Lapuisaly.
According to Detik Bali's observations at the Kupang municipal police headquarters, the protesters have not been released yet. Meanwhile the people from the Garuda Kupang ormas disbanded at 10.40 am. There has yet to be an official statement from Garuda on the incident.
Notes
Although it is widely held that West Papua declared independence from Indonesia on December 1, 1961, this actually marks the date when the Morning Star flag was first raised alongside the Dutch flag in an officially sanctioned ceremony in Jayapura, then called Hollandia. The first declaration of independence actually took place on July 1, 1971 when the Free Papua Organisation (OPM) unilaterally proclaimed West Papua as an independent democratic republic.
[Translated by James Balowski. The original title of the article was "Demo Mahasiswa Papua di Kupang Ricuh, Dipukul Ormas-Ditangkap Polisi".]
Komnas HAM Papua reports 65 alleged human rights violations in Papua during 2023
- Armed Conflict In The Land Of Papua
Jayapura, Jubi – Frits Ramandey, the Head of the Papua Office of the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM Papua), revealed that his office received 65 complaints concerning alleged human rights abuses in Papua from January to December 2023. This announcement came during the 75th World Human Rights Day commemoration in Jayapura, Papua Province, on Sunday, December 10, 2023. Ramandey stated that out of the 65 complaints, 43 were related to alleged violations of civil and political Rights, predominantly involving armed violence. “Meanwhile, the remaining 23 complaints were related to suspected violations of economic, social, and cultural Rights,” he added.
He further disclosed that as a consequence of the reported violence, 40 people died, 41 were injured, one was held captive, and one person went missing. These victims consisted of civilians (59), health workers (5), members of the West Papua National Liberation Army or TPNPB (10), Indonesian Military (TNI) soldiers (5), and police personnel (3). “We are deeply concerned about the continuous string of violence. Our condolences go out to the victims,” he expressed.
Ramandey emphasized that the ongoing and repeated violence indicated flaws in handling the situation in Papua. He highlighted the significance of the Humanitarian Pause appeal made by several national figures in Jakarta on November 9, 2023, aimed at easing armed conflicts and improving the situation in Papua. Efforts to ease armed conflicts are essential for managing refugees and initiating peaceful dialogues in Papua to halt violence. “Otherwise, the cycle of violence will only escalate,” he warned.
Komnas HAM Papua urged the TNI and police as well as the TPNPB to cease armed violence and seek legal and humanitarian approaches to resolve issues in Papua. They also called upon the provincial and municipal governments in Papua to prioritize human rights issues and create a violence-free living environment. Additionally, Komnas HAM Papua stressed the importance of considering the rights of indigenous communities in the development of the newly formed province resulting from the division of Papua Province, in line with human rights values and principles. (*)
Disbandment of Human Rights Day rally in Papua threat to freedom of expression: Activist
- Freedom Of Expression In The Land Of Papua
Mass action to commemorate Human Rights Day in Manokwari, West Papua-Jubi/Adlu Raharusun
Jayapura, Jubi – Thomas Ch Syufi, the Executive Director of the Papuan Observatory for Human Rights (POHR), has condemned the dispersal of the World Human Rights Day rally in Papua on December 10 as a threat to democracy and freedom of expression.
“The restriction and suppression of expression in Papua by the police represent a serious threat to democracy, almost indicating a democracy emergency in Papua,” Syufi told Jubi on Tuesday, December 12, 2023.
The rally organized by students ended with clashes. Five people were hit by the police, two were arrested, and two police officers were hit by objects thrown by the people.Syufi highlighted that freedom of expression is governed by Law No. 9/1998 on Freedom of Speech, which should serve as a guideline for law enforcement authorities, especially the police, in dealing with issues regarding freedom of expression. Syufi emphasized that police repression of freedom of expression is diminishing the growth of human rights principles. He pointed out that the expression of opinions is part of the universal principles of human rights explicitly stated in Article 28 of the 1945 Constitution, Article 25 of Human Rights Law No. 39/1999, Article 19 of Law No. 12/2005 concerning the Ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as well as the Freedom of Speech Law. “I believe this is an act that is not commendable and a form of power arrogance displayed by the police towards freedom of expression,” he remarked.
Syufi suggested that the police should instead assist and support students by overseeing peaceful actions from start to finish. He argued that students are merely voicing concerns about human rights violations in Papua. (*)
LBH Papua demands legal action against police who disband Human Rights Day rally
Jubi 14 December 2023
Police barricade blocking human rights protesters in Manokwari-Jubi/Adlu Raharusun
Jayapura, Jubi – Emanuel Gobay, the Director of the Papua Legal Aid Institute (LBH Papua), called for law enforcement against officers involved in police brutality against the people who rallied during the World Human Rights Day in Manokwari.
“The West Papua Police Chief must immediately order the arrest and legal processing of the perpetrators of violence, as it constitutes alleged criminal acts of assault as regulated in Article 351 of the Indonesian Penal Code,” Gobay stated in a written release on Tuesday, December 12, 2023. The rally in Manokwari commemorating World Human Rights Day ended in clashes, resulting in five individuals being struck by police, two people arrested, and two police officers hit by objects thrown by the crowd.
Gobay expressed disappointment that while Human Rights Day celebrations in various countries are typically marked by peaceful activities, such as free speeches, citywide marches, human rights-themed stages, and gratitude ceremonies, the police in Manokwari created barricades using shields and wore full riot gear to tightly control the event.
He highlighted that riot control measures should only be implemented when the situation escalates from yellow to red alert levels, as specified in Article 4 of the Indonesian National Police Chief Regulation No. 2/2019 on Riot Control.
Gobay emphasized that every police officer, in their duty or daily life, is obliged to uphold and respect human rights. He criticized the police for their actions, stating that they should have been part of the Human Rights Day observance rather than dispersing it. “We demand that the National Police Chief promptly instruct the West Papua Police Chief to investigate and legally process the officers in charge of the Riot Control Unit, and immediately order the Internal Affairs Division to investigate the Manokwari Police Chief for suspected abuse of authority,” said Gobay. (*)
Human Rights defender criticizes Jokowi for neglecting Papua conflict amidst foreign focus
Jubi News Desk - Armed Conflict In Papua 30 November 2023
Jayapura, Jubi – The ongoing armed conflict in Papua continues to claim lives among civilians, armed groups, and security forces. According to human rights advocate Theo Hesegem, President Joko Widodo seems to have disregarded this conflict while focusing on international affairs. “As a human rights defender, I am deeply troubled by the President’s apparent neglect of the escalating armed conflict in Papua. There are constant casualties, including indigenous Papuans, non-Papuans, and the Indonesian Military (TNI) and Police, as well as the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB),” Hesegem expressed his concern in a written statement on November 29, 2023.
Hesegem criticized the President and the Indonesian Government who put attention to the Palestine genocide by Israel but dismissed domestic issues such as the Papua conflict. Despite the mounting problems and casualties within the country, Hesegem believes that the President and his administration have failed to address the prolonged conflict in Papua.
He cited incidents such as the attack on non-Papuans at a mine in Mountainous Papua Province on October 16, 2023, the clash resulting in casualties from the East Nusa Tenggara Police on November 22, 2023, and the assault on workers constructing a health center in Central Papua Province on November 24, 2023.
Furthermore, Hesegem highlighted the recent confrontations between the TPNPB and the TNI that led to casualties on both sides. He criticized Jokowi for seemingly overlooking the escalating violence within the country while dealing with international matters, an action deemed as hypocrisy. (*)
PMKRI voices support for humanitarian pause in Papua
Jubi News Desk - Armed Conflict In Papua 29 November 2023
Jayapura, Jubi – The PMKRI St. Thomas Aquinas, representing the Indonesian Catholic Student Association, voiced solidarity with the call for a humanitarian pause to
alleviate the ongoing armed conflict in Papua. During the National Study Conference in Denpasar, Bali, activists from 46 PMKRI branches across Indonesia joined in supporting this crucial initiative. Tri Natalia Urada, Chairperson of the PMKRI ST Thomas Aquinas Central Board, affirmed the organization’s commitment to social justice and solidarity. “We support the humanitarian pause as an effort to prevent more casualties in the Land of Papua,” she said, highlighting the dire need for peace efforts amidst escalating conflicts. Tri also highlighted the distressing impact of law enforcement and military operations on civilians caught in conflict zones, specifying regions affected by armed conflicts. “Armed conflicts in Papua are spread across Nduga Regency, Intan Jaya Regency, Bintang Mountains Regency, Yahukimo Regency, Puncak Regency, and Maybrat Regency,” Tri emphasized.
The plea for a humanitarian pause aims to mitigate the ongoing turmoil and pave the way for constructive dialogue towards a lasting resolution. PMKRI condemned all acts of armed conflict, urging an immediate halt and advocating for neutral mediation to address the core issues in Papua. Meanwhile, Thalia Ohoitimur, Chairperson of the PMKRI St. Efrem of Jayapura Branch, reiterated the urgency of a Humanitarian Pause to address pressing humanitarian crises. “We of the PMKRI Jayapura Branch have acted by sending books, clothes, stationery, milk, and baby food to the displaced people in Bintang Mountains Regency,” she said. (*)
LBH Papua launches crisis center addressing violence and criminalization
Jubi News Desk - LBH Papua 29 November 2023
Jayapura, Jubi – The Papua Legal Aid Institute (LBH Papua), under the leadership of Director Emanuel Gobay, inaugurated a crisis center to handle grievances regarding the mistreatment and unjust legal actions against the people in Papua. Gobay highlighted a surge in cases where they provided assistance and support, prompting the establishment of this post.
He pointed out ongoing instances of violence directed at various segments of society in Papua, encompassing women, children, and even cases involving security forces like the Indonesian Military (TNI) and Police. Despite their involvement in assisting these cases, justice remains hard to find, with no redress through ethical hearings or military courts.
“Beyond the physical violence, there is widespread criminalization, like the mistreatment of palm oil workers in Keerom as well as Indigenous Papuans,” said Gobay.
He further criticized the non-inclusive process of issuing environmental permits, indicating potential corruption and a disregard for good governance principles. Ultimately, this chaotic system leads to the erosion of indigenous rights.
Gobay a;sp shed light on the consistent criminalization of activists advocating for human rights in Papua, extending to students facing charges under treason articles. He highlighted the prevalence of this issue across various sectors in 2023, with some cases going unaddressed.
LBH Papua invites the public to report instances of violence and criminalization, offering both online and offline avenues for complaints. Gobay’s aspiration is for this initiative to empower victims to stand up for their rights and seek justice. The aim is to gather complaints from across Papua, recognizing the ongoing challenges and striving to support those affected by these injustices.
Military members carry out air raid in response to TPNPB attack on mining site in Yahukimo – 12 civilians reportedly killed
Cases, Human Rights News / Indonesia, West Papua / 7 December 2023
Security force members reportedly attacked an illegal gold mining site at the Yi River in the Seradala District, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan Province, on 6 November 2023. The attack, using ground forces and three helicopters, occurred in response to an initial attack by members of the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) on the mining site. According to information received, eleven persons were killed during the TPNPB assault; several others were injured.
Following the TPNPB attack, about 60 persons working at the mining site fled to neighbouring villages and informed the Yahukimo District police via SSB radio about the incident. Thereupon, joint security forces, consisting of members of the Damai Cartenz special police and the 1715 military command, launched an attack on the mining location involving three helicopters and ground personnel.
Informants allege that security forces indiscriminately opened fire and dropped mortar grenades from the helicopters on the mining site. A Papuan student named Mr Nopenus Murib was reportedly killed during the attack. He had worked in the mine, earning money to pay his tuition. Another mine worker, Mr Ayunga Telenggen, was injured during the attack and needed medical treatment.
Local or national media have not yet taken notice of the attack, as the mining site is very remote, and security forces have shut down the internet network in the area. Moreover, the connecting road between Yahukimo’s biggest town, Dekai, and the Pegunungan Bintang Regency has been closed by security forces for more than a month. Informants say the displaced gold panners have difficulty returning to Dekai by road.
The Yahukimo Regency has become a hotspot of armed violence over the past years. The mutilation of two indigenous women and the killing of five civilians at the Braza River are the most recent cases of violence in the regency. On 16 October 2023, the TPNPB had already attacked an illegal mining site in Yahukimo and killed at least seven gold panners, mostly non-Papuans. The police were able to evacuate eleven persons from the illicit mining site. The TPNPB has called upon all non-Papuans to leave conflict hotspots, in particular the regencies Yahukimo, Nduga, Intan Jaya, Puncak, Pegunungan Bintang, and Maybrat.
TPNPB acknowledges shooting in Central Papua, citing resistance against investments in Papua
Jubi News Desk - Armed Conflict In Papua Land 24 November 2023
TPNPB Battalion Commander Ndulamo Aibon Kogoya and his troops on Wednesday (11/22/2023). - Doc. TPNPB
Nabire, Jubi – The West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) battalion commander of Ndulamo region, Aibon Kogoya, admitted to being involved in the shooting at Mbamogo Base in Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua Province, on Wednesday (22/11/2023).
Kogoya claimed his party targeted a vehicle transporting several police officers investigating a mine explosion that injured an elementary school student named Misana Hasinijau from Titigi YPPK Elementary School on November 9, 2023, in Titigi District, Intan Jaya Regency. In a Whatsapp message received by Jubi, Aibon Kogoya said his troops fired upon three security force vehicles passing through Titigi, hitting one pickup truck while the other two remained unaffected. Contradicting the statement made by Adj. Sr. Comr. Bayu Suseno, the spokesperson of the Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force, Kogoya claimed that two security personnel were fatally shot instead of one. Following the shooting, Kogoya’s group engaged in a firefight before withdrawing due to what he described as a forceful attack by the security forces.
Kogoya justified their actions as a resistance against investments in Papua, citing entities like PT Freeport Indonesia in Timika, the Wabu Block in Intan Jaya, and oil and gas operations in Agimuga as detrimental to the Papuan people.
He asserted their determination to persist until Papua achieves independence, vowing to confront security forces whom they view as supporters of Indonesian colonialism and facilitators of destructive investments in Papua. (*)
Indonesia At A Crossroads As Tensions Rise In West Papua
Organization for World Peace
Toe Pyae Naing November 22, 2023
Indonesia is currently facing a critical juncture as tensions in the restive region of West Papua continue to mount, raising concerns about the escalation of violence and the need for a peaceful resolution. As the situation in West Papua unfolds, the international community has been pressured to monitor the long-troubled region, albeit reluctant to do so closely due to the overwhelming recognition of Indonesian sovereignty over the territory. Global leaders and human rights organizations are currently monitoring the situation in West Papua, where reports of escalating violence and human rights abuses have drawn international concern and condemnation.
In March of 2022, several UN human rights experts voiced their deep apprehension in an OHCHR statement about the “deteriorating human rights situation in the Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua”, citing the estimates of somewhere between 60,000 and 100,000 Papuans displaced by Indonesian security forces and the 500,000 Papuans who have died as a result of mass extrajudicial killings. Furthermore, the kidnapping of Philip Mehrtens, a New Zealand-born pilot, by one of the rebel forces in February 2023, has recently captured the attention of neighbouring Pacific nations, which have had historically muted responses to the situation. The Australian and New Zealand governments have begun calling on the Indonesian authorities to respect universal human rights and ensure a smooth distribution of aid to those displaced. Nevertheless, due to the commitment of such nations to strengthen security and trade cooperation with Indonesia in exchange for recognition of its territorial integrity, the responses remain quite restrained. In April 2023, the Diplomat noted that New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, while voicing his concerns about the human rights violations in the region, had criticized the rebel forces for “using hostages to make a political point”.
The escalation of violence in West Papua demands urgent attention from the international community. The UN and other international organizations must recognize the severity of the issue and its roots in historical injustices and the West Papuans’ desire for self-determination. In addition, all parties, including the West Papuan separatist groups, must prioritize peace and social welfare when developing a resolution. A successful peace agreement should encompass provisions for autonomy and self-determination, respect for human rights, and economic development in West Papua. A truth and reconciliation process could help address historical grievances and foster trust between the conflicting parties. Furthermore, the Indonesian government should allow independent international observers to monitor the situation, ensuring transparency and accountability in its efforts to resolve the conflict. A commitment to justice and accountability for any human rights abuses is essential to rebuilding trust.
West Papua, located on the western half of the island of New Guinea, has a history marred by conflict. When Indonesia gained control of the territory from the Dutch in the 1960s, it led to a controversial and disputed referendum known as the “Act of Free Choice”. Many argue this was not genuinely representative of West Papua’s population as only the 1,025 delegates selected by the Indonesian government were allowed to vote and the result was an unsurprisingly unanimous support for integration. Since then, a separatist movement has persisted, seeking independence from Indonesia. Over the decades, Indonesia’s policies of discrimination and abuse towards the indigenous Papuan population have flared up sporadic violence and unrest, resulting in significant civilian casualties. While the Indonesian government has denied such events, current efforts to stop the conflict by providing financial investment and autonomy have failed to address its root causes. Additionally, the leniency of international organizations towards the Indonesian government has prolonged this conflict, leaving West Papuans to live in dire conditions.
Indonesia stands at a crossroads in West Papua, faced with a choice between continued conflict and a path to peace. The world is watching, and it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the protection of civilians and engage in constructive dialogue to address the underlying causes of the conflict. The current escalation of violence and instability in West Papua is deeply concerning, and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution cannot be overstated. The international community plays a pivotal role in supporting a peaceful outcome. A comprehensive peace agreement, respect for human rights, and economic development can lay the foundation for a more stable and prosperous future for West Papua. Indonesia’s response to this crisis will not only impact the immediate situation in West Papua but also have far-reaching implications for peace and security in the region. It is imperative that Indonesia, along with other stakeholders, choose the path of peace and reconciliation, working towards a future where the people of West Papua can enjoy stability, prosperity, and a voice in their destiny. Toe Pyae Naing
First debate: Prabowo heats up Papua talk with pencak silat movements
Antara News 12 December 2023
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Presidential candidate number 2, Prabowo Subianto, gave spirited replies to questions about human rights issues and violence in Papua during the first presidential debate on Tuesday. He used body language, repeatedly clenching and gesturing with his fists, and even imitated some movements of pencak silat--a traditional martial art--during the debate held at the General Elections Commission (KPU) building in Jakarta. He vigorously countered the arguments of his opponents, Ganjar Pranowo and Anies Baswedan, on human rights issues and violence in Papua.
Even when his time ran out, he continued to speak, eliciting laughter and applause from his supporters. "Wait a minute!" Prabowo told his supporters, asking them not to applaud so that he could continue to make his argument. Regarding the issue of human rights and violence in Papua, he said that a growing separatist movement exists, with suspected foreign involvement. He then outlined his strategy for resolving the violence, which included steps such as enforcing the law, strengthening personnel, and bolstering economic development.
Ganjar, presidential candidate number 3, said in his response that a dialogue is needed to address Papua violence. Meanwhile, presidential candidate number 1, Anies, stated that the root cause of the violence in Papua is the lack of justice. It is important to prevent the same cases from repeating and ending all human rights violations in Papua, he added. Prabowo said he agreed with Ganjar and Anies but maintained that the situation in Papua is more complex than it appears. "It's true that we need justice, but the situation is more complex than that," he told Anies, who responded with a smile.
Prabowo said there are geopolitical and ideological challenges in resolving the injustices in Papua. "This is our nation's problem. We need to collect all power," he said.
Reporter: Genta M, Kenzu Editor: Anton Santoso
The Fifty-Second Pacific Islands Forum was held in Rarotonga, Cook Islands from 6 – 10 November 2023
In the Communique in relationship to West Papua
West Papua (Papua)
66. Leaders reaffirmed recognition of Indonesia’s sovereignty over West Papua (Papua). In recalling their earlier positions on the issue, including the call for open and constructive dialogue with Indonesia, Leaders appointed a Forum Envoy comprising of the Prime Minister of Fiji and the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea to facilitate a dialogue with Indonesia on areas of shared interest for mutual understanding.
Full Communique
https://www.forumsec.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/FINAL-52nd-PIF-Communique-9-November-2023-1.pdf
Rabuka and Marape to 'engage further' with Indonesia on West Papua as special envoys
RNZ Pacific 8 November 2023 Kelvin Anthony, RNZ Pacific Lead Digital and Social Media Journalist
The Melanesian Spearhead Group has appointed Fiji and Papua New Guinea prime ministers Sitiveni Rabuka and James Marape as special envoys to Indonesia to "address the West Papua issue", a move that has been welcomed by the Pacific Conference of Churches. The sub-regional group met for its caucus meeting on Monday (Cook Islands time) ahead of the official opening of the 52nd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Rarotonga, during which Rabuka proposed sending a representative to Indonesia to facilitate dialogue on the West Papua situation. Rabuka and Marape's mandate will be to meet with Indonesian President Joko Widodo to discuss the pressing issue of West Papua. The MSG caucus reached a consensus that sending a ministerial envoy, as opposed to a bureaucratic-level envoy, would be the most effective approach to addressing the West Papua issue.
"Earlier today, the Melanesian Spearhead Group Caucus appointed me as a Special Envoy to address the West Papua issue," Rabuka posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). "Alongside Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea (PNG), we've been tasked with meeting the President of Indonesia to discuss this pressing matter.”
In August, the MSG leaders failed to reach a consensus in Port Vila to accept the United Liberation Movement for West Papua's (ULMWP) bid to become a full member of the sub-regional grouping, defering the issue to the Forum Leaders Meeting. Vanuatu Climate Change Minister Ralph Regenvanu said Rabuka and Marapae's appointment was "an additional measure" on the West Papua issue.
"This is an additional measure agreed to by the MSG which supplements the existing decisions of PIF and MSG for an independent assessment by the UN Human Rights Commissioner and an MSG Leaders visit to West Papua," Regenvanu posted on X.
Churches welcomes move
The Pacific Conference of Churches (PCC) has said it "welcomes [the] Melanesian Spearhead Group move to engage further with Indonesia on the situation in West Papua and calls for an inclusive process of engagement that doesn't leave West Papuans out of the talanoa." General secretary Padre James Bhagwan said the PCC "the engagement of ULMWP as MSG Observers will need to be secured by PMs for this process to have legitimacy." However, the PCC is also calling for an imminent persons group, including civil society to accompany the process, for transparency.
"The situation in West Papua will also be on the Agenda of the 12th [PCC] General Assembly, which begins in just over a week in Kanaky-New Caledonia," Padre Bhagwan said on X. The PCC General Assembly is expected to gather almost 200 delegates from 35 churches and 12 national councils of churches and regional faith organisations from over 18 Pacific Island countries and territories, making it the largest constituent assembly in the region, he added.
Victor Yeimo 2023 VOLTAIRE EMPTY CHAIR AWARD WINNER
Submitted by Liberty Victoria on Wed, 08/11/2023 - 11:33
Liberty Victoria is awarding the 2023 Voltaire Empty Chair Award to Mr Victor Yeimo, a strong advocate for West Papua’s independence from Indonesia and an international spokesperson for the National Committee for West Papua (KNPB) and the Papuan People’s Petition. Established in 2016, the Voltaire Empty Chair Award is presented to a person who is worthy to receive the Voltaire or Young Voltaire Award but cannot be present to receive the award due to the consequences of their exercise of or advocacy for human rights, free speech or civil liberties.
Mr Yeimo, a staunch pro-independence activist and human rights defender, had been on the Indonesian authorities wanted list since he led the civil resistance in West Papua. He has been arrested and imprisoned three times, in October 2009, May 2013 and May 2021, for exercising his civil rights in leading peaceful protest marches.
Mr Yeimo’s recent arrest and imprisonment was on charges of treason for leading peaceful protests against racial discrimination in West Papua in 2019. He was placed in solitary confinement for three months, where he had limited access to lawyers and family, as well as lack of medical treatment for his deteriorating health. After 28 months of imprisonment, he was released on 23 September 2023. In May 2023, the Jayapura District Court ruled that Mr Yeimo violated the Indonesian Criminal Code by demonstrating and disseminating prohibited information. However, the Jayapura High Court overturned this ruling in July 2023 and sentenced Yeimo to one year’s imprisonmen. Recently, thousands of Papuans celebrated Mr Yeimo’s release in Waena stadium in Jayapura. We are honoured that Mr Yeimo has accepted the 2023 Liberty Victoria Empty Chair award. The Liberty Victoria Empty Chair Award will be presented on Friday 10 November 2023.
https://libertyvictoria.org.au/content/2023-voltaire-empty-chair-award-winner
Public hospital and Puskesmas in Nduga indefinitely closed
Human Rights Monitor Cases, Human Rights News / Indonesia, West Papua / 21 December 2023
The largest town in the Nduga Regency, Kenyam, has been grappling with a severe health-service disruption since 29 November 2023. The Nduga Regional General Hospital (RSUD) and the Kenyam Health Centre (Puskesmas) have ceased operations due to the non-payment of health workers’ honorarium for five months, from July to November 2023. Officials attached an announcement at the entrance door of Puskesmas Nduga (see photo on top, source: Suara Papua), declaring that the Puskesmas is temporarily closed for an uncertain period of time due to lack of medication. The dire situation has left the local community struggling to access medical treatment, exacerbating an already challenging environment. Nduga remains a hotspot of armed conflict as of today, with an estimated 57.000 persons being internally displaced since December 2018.
The closure of both the RSUD and the Puskesmas in Nduga has broader implications for public health, especially for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nduga. The absence of health services not only hampers immediate access to medical care but also poses long-term risks, potentially leading to a decline in life quality, increased mortality rates, and the spread of diseases. Patients with chronic conditions face heightened vulnerabilities as they are unable to access essential medicines and medical services.
Human rights defenders in Nduga witness the poor state of public services in Nduga and have called for immediate action. They urge the Ministry of Health to assess the health services in the Papua Pegunungan Province, emphasizing the critical impact on mortality rates and the well-being of patients and health workers. Health access is crucial, given the ongoing conflict situation in Nduga. They also urged the regional government to address the needs of the community, particularly IDPs, by ensuring the availability of medical supplies and timely payment of health workers in Nduga.
Indigenous groups rebuke court OK for palm oil company to raze Papua forests
TPNPB Rebels Adopt New Tactics in Indonesia’s West Papua Province
https://jamestown.org/program/tpnpb-rebels-adopt-new-tactics-in-indonesias-west-papua-province/
GUEST BLOG: Maire Leadbeater – Reflecting on Henry Kissinger
https://thedailyblog.co.nz/2023/12/17/guest-blog-maire-leadbeater-reflecting-on-henry-kissinger/
AWPA Statement 1st December. West Papuan flag raising
https://awpasydneynews.blogspot.com/2023/11/awpa-statement-1st-december-west-papuan.html
NZ’s slide into sinister Pacific power play
https://e-tangata.co.nz/comment-and-analysis/nzs-slide-into-sinister-pacific-power-play/
PRABOWO SUBIANTO Background briefing
https://awpasydneynews.blogspot.com/2023/11/prabowo-subianto-background-briefing.html
Why West Papuans are raising a banned independence flag across Australia, NZ and the Pacific
Indonesia’s soldiers: Back where they don’t belong
https://johnmenadue.com/back-where-they-dont-belong/
Decolonization of West Papua: Supporting a Nonviolent Struggle from Abroad
Photos. International Human Rights Day 10 December Sydney 2023
https://awpasydneynews.blogspot.com/2023/12/photos-international-human-rights-day.html
Open letter to Pacific Islands Forum leaders concerning West Papua
https://awpasydneynews.blogspot.com/2023/11/open-letter-to-pacific-islands-forum.html
PAPUA 2023 NOVEMBER Report in Bahasa
https://awpasydneynews.blogspot.com/2023/12/papua-2023-november-report-in-bahasa.html
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