Young Intellectual Leader from Papua Highlands, Charles Kasuay: Take Firm Action Against OPM and Safeguard Papua’s Development
Papua – Charles Kasuay, a young intellectual leader from the Papua Highlands, has voiced strong support for the government’s firm stance in dealing with the separatist group Free Papua Movement (OPM) and called for continuous oversight of development efforts in Papua. According to him, security is a fundamental prerequisite for achieving prosperity and progress in the region.
Kasuay emphasized that the brutal and violent acts often carried out by OPM have hindered development and created fear among local communities, particularly in the highland areas. He urged security forces to take firm but humane action to ensure that civilians do not become victims.
“I urge all Papuan communities to continue placing their trust in and supporting law enforcement officers in carrying out justice in accordance with existing laws. This is essential to ensure that criminal acts committed by the TPNPB and other groups aiming to disrupt development are dealt with decisively,” Kasuay stated.
He further stressed that the actions of TPNPB are inexcusable and violate the right to life and basic human rights.
“What’s more concerning is that these violent acts have occurred in various regions such as Yahukimo, Intan Jaya, Puncak, and others. These actions have caused deep trauma among local residents, making them afraid to go about their daily activities such as farming or going to work,” he explained.
Kasuay underscored the importance of continued development as the key to Papua’s progress. Therefore, he encouraged all community members to support the programs currently being carried out by the government.
“I call on all communities in Papua to support government programs, whether at the district, provincial, or national level, in order to realize the aspirations of the people in terms of development,” said Kasuay.
He also warned the public not to be easily provoked by individuals or groups who seek to create unrest and threaten regional stability. He advised that any such provocations should be reported to the authorities.
“When there are provocations or messages causing unrest—within families, groups, or any setting—people should report them to law enforcement so they can be handled properly using a human-centered approach. This is important to ensure that justice is upheld in a way that aligns with public expectations and prevents criminal acts across Papua,” he said.
Charles Kasuay’s statement represents the voice of a rising generation of young Papuan intellectuals who long for progress, peace, and justice on the island of Cenderawasih.
