By: Solomon Wambrau)*
As tensions increase in several mountainous areas of Papua, a number of traditional leaders in Papua have expressed their commitment to support law enforcement efforts by the TNI and POLRI in eradicating acts of violence carried out by separatist groups. This commitment was born out of deep concern about the negative impacts caused by these actions, which not only threaten lives but also disrupt stability and peace in the Land of Papua.
A traditional figure in Papua emphasized that acts of violence that continue to occur in several districts in Papua are not only detrimental to security forces, but also civil society. As a traditional leader, he feels he has a responsibility to ensure that actions that result in casualties and property damage do not continue.
At every opportunity, this traditional figure always appeals to all Papuan people, especially those involved in acts of violence, to stop brutal acts which only make the situation worse. The state and people of Papua really hope that these incidents will not continue. He urged all parties, both government and society, to work together to create a safe and peaceful situation in Papua.
Yanto Eluay, a prominent traditional figure in Papua, expressed his full support for the efforts of the TNI and Polri in tackling the Free Papua Organization (OPM) which often causes security disturbances in several areas in Papua. In his statement, Yanto emphasized the importance of creating sustainable peace in Papua, especially in mountainous areas which are often the center of conflict.
As an Ondoafi, he expressed his concern about the events that occurred in Papua, especially in Puncak Jaya Regency. He emphasized that acts of violence that cause loss of life, property and other damage must be stopped immediately. According to him, these acts of violence not only destroy people’s lives, but also hinder economic and educational development in the region.
Obligation to continue to appeal to the community to stop all forms of violence which only worsen the situation. He emphasized that security and peace in Papua is a shared responsibility, and therefore, all parties must work together to create a safe and conducive environment.
In his statement, he invited all parties, including groups that are still carrying out acts of violence, to stop carrying out brutal acts that would actually result in confrontation with the security forces. He fully supports law enforcement efforts carried out by the TNI and Polri against anyone involved in violence.
As a respected traditional figure, Yanto Eluay always uses various opportunities to urge the community to work together to create peace. He often conveys messages of peace through the mass media and in various meetings with other community figures. Yanto emphasized the importance of collaboration between all elements of society, including religious leaders, women’s leaders and youth leaders, in creating a safe and peaceful Papua.
Yanto also emphasized that peace is a common need. Therefore, all parties must work together and be committed to assisting the TNI and Polri in law enforcement efforts in Papua. According to him, acts of violence will only harm society, especially those living in conflict areas.
Apart from that, these acts of violence have a negative impact on the entire Papuan people. He gave an example of how these actions disrupt economic activities, education and the daily lives of people, including mothers who farm and children who go to school. Therefore, he invited all parties to maintain peace in Papua for the sake of a better future.
A conducive situation is the key to resuming economic and educational activities disrupted by conflict. Acts of violence not only have an impact on security, but also disrupt economic activities and the teaching and learning process in schools. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the land of Papua remains peaceful so that people’s lives can continue normally.
This traditional figure also invited people in Puncak Jaya and other areas to stop all forms of resistance that could cause victims. Civil society needs to realize that these actions will only make the situation worse and harm all parties, including children who want to go to school and mothers who farm.
Peace in Papua is considered a shared responsibility. According to him, collaboration is needed to create a peaceful and safe Papua. This is a commitment that must be carried together. Highlighting the negative impact of acts of violence which often damage important infrastructure in Papua, such as schools and government offices. Schools used to educate children and build human resources in Papua are often targets of violence, which is very detrimental to Papua’s future.
In his closing statement, the traditional figure reiterated his support for the TNI and POLRI in enforcing the law. He supports all efforts made by the government, TNI and POLRI to enforce the law against anyone involved in acts of violence, in order to create a sense of security and peace in Papua.
In this way, he invited all Papuan people to jointly support efforts to enforce the law and maintain peace in the land of Papua. The aim is to ensure that Papua becomes a safe and peaceful place, where people’s lives can run well and in harmony.
)* The author is a Papuan student living in Bogor