Jayapura – Several community groups in Papua have issued calls for peace in response to a demonstration circular calling for the dissolution of the House of Representatives (DPR). The calls came from the Regional Leadership Council of the Indonesian Christian Youth Movement (DPD GAMKI) Papua and the Papuan Two-Wheeled Alliance Association (Garda), emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability and avoiding provocative actions.
The chairman of the Papua chapter of the Indonesian Muslim Movement for the Coalition of Papua (GAMKI), Luis Mebri, stated that public aspirations are part of democracy, but they must be expressed with dignity and without causing chaos. “We invite all Papuans to prioritize the spirit of brotherhood. Aspirations are welcome, but they must not lead to division and violence. Papua is our shared home; let us care for it peacefully,” said Luis Mebri.
Luis also emphasized that all parties should not be easily provoked by issues that could potentially divide unity. He appealed to community leaders, religious leaders, youth leaders, and students to exercise restraint. “Different political views should not drive us apart. Let us unite our energies to build a just, peaceful, and prosperous Papua,” he added.
Similarly, the Head of the Papua Regional Leadership Council (DPW) of the Papuan Guard, Ali Ridwan Patty, stated that his party had changed the planned demonstration to a candlelight vigil as a form of solidarity in memory of Affan Kurniawan, an online motorcycle taxi driver who died during a demonstration in Jakarta. He explained that this decision was made to maintain peace in Papua. “Without diminishing respect, we are all working together to maintain public order and security in Jayapura City and Papua Province,” Ali Ridwan stated.
Ali emphasized that the political situation following the August 6 gubernatorial election revote, which was not yet fully stable, was the primary reason for canceling the demonstration. “In this regard, I would like to convey to all members and communities affiliated with the Papua Guard Association not to hold demonstrations. Let’s support the Police, Regional Police, City Government, and Provincial Government in maintaining public order and security in Papua,” he concluded.
This call for peace is expected to mitigate potential conflict and prevent anarchic actions that could disrupt development in Papua. The leaders emphasized that security is key to creating a peaceful, advanced, and prosperous Papua.