Mamberamo Tengah — The wave of rejection against the Free Papua Movement (OPM) continues to grow across various regions of Papua. This time, a strong message came from the people of Mamberamo Tengah Regency, who held a peaceful rally to reject the presence of OPM in their homeland.
The demonstration, which took place in downtown Kobakma, the capital of Mamberamo Tengah, on Sunday (October 5, 2025), was attended by hundreds of residents from various backgrounds. They carried banners and posters calling for peace and denouncing all forms of violence and terror carried out by armed groups.
During their speeches, participants expressed disappointment and rejection of OPM, which they said no longer represents the people but instead has become a source of suffering and fear for civilians.
“We don’t want to live in fear. OPM is not the solution for Papua. They only bring more suffering to the people. That’s why we reject their presence in Mamberamo Tengah,” said Yohanes Kobogay, a youth leader who led the rally.
Voice of Tradition: Papua Is a Land of Peace, Not Terror
Support for the peaceful rally also came from local traditional leaders. Elias Wanimbo, the head of the Kobakma tribe, emphasized that Mamberamo Tengah is a land of peace that must be protected by all its children.
“We were born and raised on this land to live side by side, not to kill each other. OPM has brought too many wounds to Papua. Therefore, we stand firm in rejecting them,” he declared before the crowd.
According to Elias, OPM’s actions—such as extortion, threats, and violence against both indigenous Papuans (OAP) and migrants—have destroyed the social and cultural fabric of life in Mamberamo Tengah.
Peaceful Rally Proceeds Safely, Supported by Security Forces
The peaceful demonstration ran safely and orderly under the supervision of security officers. The participants agreed that peace and development are the best paths for Papua’s future—not armed struggle that only takes innocent lives.
This call for peace sends a strong message to OPM that violent movements no longer have a place in the hearts of the Papuan people.
“We just want to live in peace, build a better future for our children, and reject all forms of violence. Papua needs peace, not weapons,” Yohanes said.
The People Rise: Rejecting Violence in Their Own Land
The rejection voiced by the people of Mamberamo Tengah reinforces the growing realization among Papuans that true freedom comes through peace. The OPM, once claiming to fight for the people, is now seen as a threat to their lives.
“The voice of the people is clear. We want peace, not war,” Elias concluded.
Mamberamo Tengah has spoken. Now it is time for all of Papua to unite, reject terror, and build a peaceful, safe, and prosperous future.
