Synergy between Security Forces and Community to Realize Regional Elections Without OPM Interference
By: Loa Murib )*
Ahead of the implementation of the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections in Papua, the importance of collaboration between security forces (Apkam) and the community is increasingly apparent. Amidst various challenges, both from separatist groups such as the Free Papua Movement (OPM) and the potential for local socio-political conflicts, the strong synergy between the Police, TNI, and Papuans is the key to success in realizing a safe and peaceful regional election.
Tight security has been carried out with the deployment of 1,364 joint personnel in Merauke Regency, South Papua. Merauke Police Chief, AKBP Leonardo Yoga, said that the personnel consisted of members of the Polres, Brimob, TNI, and Community Protection Unit (Linmas), and had been spread across various police stations to the border area with Papua New Guinea. Routine patrols and intensive dialogue with local residents were carried out to ensure conducive conditions, prevent the spread of issues that could divide, and invite the community to play an active role in maintaining the security of their environment. Adat Supports Public Order and Security in Papua
Support for the security forces did not only come from state institutions, but also from traditional figures who have great influence in Papua. The Head of the Kamoro Tribe in Timika, Marianus Magnaiteku, expressed his appreciation to the Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force which was considered successful in maintaining public order ahead of the Pilkada. This success was not only reflected in physical security, but also from the close partnership established between the authorities and the community, especially traditional and religious figures who acted as liaisons with local residents.
Mariateku highlights the leadership of Brigadier General Faizal Ramadhani, Head of the Cartenz Peace Operation, in creating a harmonious atmosphere through a dialogical approach. By embracing traditional figures, the Police and TNI succeeded in building community trust and cooperation, which became the initial bulwark in preventing conflict. This persuasive approach created a good understanding of the importance of stability, especially in facing the Pilkada, and showed that security is not only the responsibility of the authorities, but also the community.
Interestingly, the push to maintain peace also came from former OPM leader Lambert Pekikir who said that Papuans should remain united and maintain security, especially ahead of the Pilkada. He asked that any differences, whether related to political choices or differences of opinion, be resolved through dialogue. Pekikir even emphasized the importance of order and rejected actions that could disrupt peace.
The call from this local figure reflects the spirit of unity of the Papuan people in facing the Pilkada. Although political differences exist, the agreement on the importance of peace is a strong foundation for avoiding conflict. On the other hand, the statement of this former OPM member is also a sign that the peaceful path is increasingly accepted as a better solution than armed confrontation.
Collaboration between security forces and the community is not only aimed at avoiding interference from the OPM, but also to ensure that the entire Pilkada process remains in accordance with democratic principles. Security forces, through operations carried out by the Cartenz Peace Task Force, are committed to keeping the Papua region safe from the threat of weapons and acts of terror. In recent times, the Task Force has succeeded in uncovering the circulation of firearms in Nabire, which is expected to reduce the potential for interference in the implementation of the Pilkada. This step was welcomed by traditional leaders, because it reduces the risk of armed conflict that could hinder the election process. This preventive security provides a sense of security to the community, especially when they come to the TPS to exercise their right to vote.
Collaboration between the TNI, Polri, the community, and Papuan traditional figures is a form of community-based approach that is expected to anticipate security threats. This synergy creates an atmosphere where the community feels involved and appreciated, and emphasizes that democracy can run without coercion or violence.
With high hopes for a peaceful Pilkada, the Papuan people have shown an optimistic attitude towards the success of this democratic party. Their participation together with the security forces indicates that Papua has transformed into a stable and safe region, where political differences are not a threat, but are embraced in a spirit of togetherness. Here, the role of the Police and TNI as the front guard of security is increasingly seen harmoniously with the support of residents who also maintain environmental order.
Facing possible threats from separatists, security forces and Papuan people are expected to maintain their commitment to keeping Papua safe during the Pilkada process. All parties need to realize that stability in Papua is part of national stability. With tight security, close cooperation between traditional leaders and security forces, and support from residents, threats such as OPM disturbances can be suppressed.
Synergy between security forces and the Papuan community is the main foundation for the success of the Pilkada without interference, including from separatist groups. When the community fully supports it, the threat of interference from the OPM and other armed groups can be minimized. With the commitment of the security forces who collaborate closely with the community, Papua shows a step forward towards implementing a safe, peaceful, and democratic Pilkada.
)* Papuan students live in Surabaya
