By: Darius Daryono )*
The 2025 regional election revote (PSU) in Papua Province and Boven Digoel Regency demonstrates that democracy in Papua can proceed safely, orderly, and with political maturity. Despite some tensions and differences of opinion, the overall situation in the region remains conducive. All parties, from election organizers and security forces to community leaders and residents, have demonstrated their commitment to maintaining unity following the revote.
Acting Governor of Papua, Agus Fatoni, expressed his appreciation for the smooth running of the revote, which was considered one of the most peaceful in the history of regional elections in Papua. He stated that this situation must be maintained so that people can carry out their activities, work, and worship peacefully. Fatoni emphasized that this success was the result of the cooperation of all elements who maintained stability and security throughout the process. He also urged the entire community to accept the voting results with an open heart. He stated that whoever is elected is God’s will and must be accepted.
The General Elections Commission (KPU) also played a crucial role in ensuring the entire process ran according to regulations. KPU member Iffa Rosita Teknis Eberta Kawima, who led the supervision of the re-election (PSU) in Boven Digoel, emphasized the importance of understanding the legal requirements for exercising voting rights. The Constitutional Court’s decision regarding who is eligible to vote in the re-election (PSU) must be respected, as it is binding and serves as the legal basis. Whoever is elected is the result of the citizens’ legitimate choice. Iffa commended the public for adhering to the regulations despite protests at several polling stations (TPS). She noted that swift coordination between the regency, district, and polling station KPUs successfully mitigated potential conflict.
Undeniably, there were some on-the-ground dynamics, such as the spontaneous demonstration by volunteers in South Jayapura demanding that the district-level plenary be conducted honestly and without interference. There was also a riot between supporters in Biak Kota District, sparked by a technical misunderstanding. However, these differences did not escalate into prolonged conflict and instead ended in a peaceful resolution. This situation demonstrates the maturing awareness of democracy in Papua, allowing for criticism and protests to be voiced without compromising public security.
The released results of the Papua Provincial Election Re-vote (PSU) show a tight race between two candidate pairs. Candidate Pair 01, Benhur Tomi Mano – Constant Karma (BTM-CK), obtained 249,668 votes, or 49.71 percent, while Candidate Pair 02, Matius D. Fakhiri – Aryoko Rumaropen (MARI-YO), garnered 252,598 votes, or 50.29 percent. In Boven Digoel, the PSU was contested by four candidate pairs, with tight monitoring at 221 polling stations (TPS) spread across 112 villages in 20 districts.
Both candidate pairs competing at the provincial level delivered messages of unity. Marshel Morin, spokesperson for the BTM-CK candidate pair, expressed his gratitude to the public and election organizers. He also expressed his gratitude to Almighty God for the safe and peaceful conduct of the Papua gubernatorial election re-run in nine regencies/cities. While reminding them that the vote recapitulation must be closely monitored for transparency, Morin emphasized his team’s commitment to maintaining a peaceful process.
Meanwhile, gubernatorial candidate Matius D. Fakhiri stated that the revote results represent a mandate from the people that must be upheld for the future development of Papua. This victory was not about defeating any party, but rather about embracing all Papuans. He also expressed his appreciation to all parties, including organizers, security forces, religious leaders, traditional leaders, youth leaders, women’s figures, and intellectuals who have contributed to maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.
Papuan political observer and community leader, Dr. Yulianus Wenda, believes the implementation of this revote (PSU) is an important lesson for local democracy. He believes that differences in political choices in Papua are now being addressed with maturity. Although there have been small demonstrations and disturbances, none have escalated into widespread violence. This indicates that the Papuan people are increasingly prepared to navigate the democratic process with a cool head. Yulianus added that the tight revote results have actually served as a catalyst for elected leaders to work more inclusively, as both those who support and those who oppose them have the right to experience the benefits of development.
Post-Runoff, the biggest challenge is maintaining the spirit of unity that has been established and preventing provocation. Acting Governor Agus Fatoni reminded all parties to avoid divisive narratives. The Papuan people have exemplified democracy. We must not allow external provocation to undermine the unity that has been built.
The General Elections Commission (KPU) and the Elections Supervisory Agency (Bawaslu) also ensured that any aggrieved party could pursue legal dispute resolution. This step is crucial to maintaining public trust in the democratic process. For Papua, the success of a safe and conducive re-election is invaluable social capital for strengthening national unity.
Regional elections are not simply about who wins or loses, but about how the political process can strengthen community bonds. In Papua, this year’s re-election campaign demonstrated that differences in political choices can be tempered by mutual respect. The democratic process coexists with a local culture that values deliberation and togetherness.
Going forward, all elements of Papuan society are expected to continue maintaining a healthy democratic climate. Elected leaders at the provincial and district levels are expected to embrace all stakeholders and focus on building a peaceful, just, and prosperous Papua. Thus, the momentum of the 2025 re-election will not only be a historical political milestone but also a significant milestone that affirms Papua as an integral part of a democratic and civilized Indonesia.
)* The author is a political observer