Papuan Customary Leader Stands Firm Against Separatist Provocation, Urges Rejection of July 1 Commemoration

Jayapura – The designation of July 1 as the anniversary of the West Papua National Liberation Army–Free Papua Organization (TPN-OPM) has once again drawn rejection from Papuan customary leaders. This time, a strong voice comes from Yanto Eluay, a prominent figure in the indigenous community, who advocates for peace and firmly rejects any form of glorification of the armed separatist movement.

Yanto Eluay stated that commemorating July 1 as the founding day of TPN-OPM holds no place in the cultural values of the Papuan people.

“As a Papuan customary leader, I firmly declare that we reject July 1 as the anniversary of TPN-OPM. That date does not reflect the noble values of our indigenous community, which cherishes peace and brotherhood,” said Yanto Eluay on Friday (June 27, 2025).

His rejection is not without reason. According to Yanto Eluay, the Papuan people have a forward-looking vision and desire to live in a safe, peaceful, and prosperous environment.

“We do not want our future generations to live under the shadow of conflict. We want to develop the Land of Papua through education, healthcare, and prosperity—not through weapons and violence,” he added.

In his view, violence and separatism are major obstacles to Papua’s progress. Indigenous communities, he emphasized, have a tradition of maintaining harmony and valuing life. Therefore, any attempts to divide the nation must be collectively rejected.

Furthermore, Yanto Eluay urged the Papuan youth not to be easily drawn into destructive narratives that only fuel prolonged conflict.

“The Land of Papua is a land of peace, not of conflict. Let us protect this land with sincerity and clear minds. We reject July 1 as the TPN-OPM anniversary. We choose peace. Papua is Indonesia,” he stressed.

He concluded his statement with a hope that all elements of the nation would help maintain stability in Papua as a key requirement for sustainable development in this culturally and resource-rich region.