JAYAPURA \u2014 The Wikaya Keerom Tribal Chief, Herman Albert Yoku, has called on all Papuans to uphold the unity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) and to avoid being influenced by movements or groups he described as attempting to undermine national stability. He emphasized that Papua\u2019s status as part of Indonesia is legally recognized under international law. (Friday, 5 December 2025).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Herman stressed that Papua\u2019s integration into Indonesia was finalized in 1963 and reaffirmed through the 1969 Act of Free Choice (Pepera), which was acknowledged by the United Nations. According to him, movements such as the West Melanesia group, KNPB, and ULMWP are factions without legitimacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAll activities carried out by West Melanesia, KNPB, and ULMWP are unclear and illegitimate factions. Papua\u2019s political status is settled. There is no space for them, and the UN will not listen,\u201d he asserted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He also addressed human rights (HAM) issues that are often linked to these groups ahead of Human Rights Day. Herman argued that these efforts merely exploit the momentum to create unrest, and he rejected the narrative that systematic human rights violations are occurring in Papua.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThere are no human rights violations taking place. Do not link Human Rights Day to NKRI, because every country has its own legal system,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Herman further urged Papuans to continue their daily activities\u2014business owners, civil servants, TNI\u2013Polri personnel, and the general public\u2014especially as Christmas and New Year celebrations approach. He reminded the community to avoid involvement in unlawful activities, including gatherings that could lead to chaos, such as the recent disruptive incident at a concert.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cDo not organize prohibited events. And for concert enthusiasts, do not cause trouble. Security and organizers bear responsibility for enforcing this,\u201d he stated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In closing, Herman invited all Christians in Papua to welcome Christmas on 25 December and the New Year on 1 January 2026 with peace, mutual respect, and unity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIn this month of peace, let us live side by side in harmony. Be good citizens and love the Republic of Indonesia, which is blessed by God,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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