Benny Wenda, the Interim President of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), has firmly stated that the quest for self-determination for West Papua is non-negotiable. He has outright rejected any discussions with Indonesia unless the topic of independence is included.
Wenda remarked, “Dialogue with Indonesia is not the answer for West Papua,” emphasizing that West Papua is not just a province of Indonesia but a colonized nation. He referred to Indonesia’s recent proposal of “amnesty” for West Papuan political prisoners made by incoming Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, dismissing it as a “cheap stunt for the international media.” He argued that amnesty cannot be a genuine resolution if the right to self-determination is still considered illegal.
Wenda pointed out a significant mandate from over 1.8 million signatures on the 2017 West Papuan People’s Petition that demonstrates solid support among the majority of the Indigenous population. He advocated for a legitimate act of self-determination through an internationally-supervised vote, asserting that the dialogues must occur under the auspices of the United Nations, as the issue originated there.
Unlike other motions advocating for a better representation of Papuans within Indonesia’s government framework, Wenda firmly stated that the ULMWP is not seeking increased representation or improved governance in Jakarta. Rather, they are fighting for liberation from colonial rule and self-determination, encapsulated in the word “Merdeka,” or freedom.
In the context of West Papua’s ongoing struggle for independence, this statement resonates deeply with the broader regional discussions of colonialism, especially amid recent debates regarding the rights of Papua in international forums. The focus on self-determination aligns with the ongoing sentiments echoed in the international community, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Indigenous rights and autonomy.
The ULMWP’s commitment to international dialogue and UN mediation retains a hopeful framework for West Papua’s future, illustrating their desire for a peaceful resolution that honors the will of the people. This struggle underscores the persistent quest for autonomy within the region, linkable to the wider conversation of self-determination that many similar movements reflect across the globe, illustrating the global context of such local actions.
Summary: Benny Wenda has declared West Papua’s pursuit of independence non-negotiable, dismissing Indonesia’s proposed amnesty for political prisoners and insisting on UN-mediated discussions focused on self-determination. Wenda’s stance emphasizes the urgency for genuine liberty rather than mere representation within Indonesian governance, rallying support from the majority of the Indigenous population.
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