Jayapura – Yanto Khomlay Eluay, a prominent indigenous leader in Papua, has called for peace to be maintained in the region ahead of the upcoming elections on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
“The peace in Papua greatly depends on the attitudes and behavior of the people living here, making it a collective responsibility to preserve peace,” said Eluay, the Ondofolo (Chief) of Central Sentani, during a statement in Sentani on Sunday.
Eluay emphasized that public demonstrations and the expression of opinions are protected by law but must be conducted with a focus on maintaining security and public order.
“I urge all my fellow Papuans, particularly those in the main provinces, to come together and maintain peace until the electoral process is completed,” he added.
He highlighted that the central government’s policies regarding Papua are designed to enhance the well-being of the local population across various sectors.
“The government has good intentions with every program offered to Papua. Therefore, these initiatives should be evaluated wisely to ensure peace and stability,” Eluay stated.
He reiterated that the purpose of central government programs and policies is to uplift the welfare of Papuan society and not to bring harm.
“Thus, I encourage the Papuan people to assess these programs fairly. If there are shortcomings, provide constructive feedback for the greater good,” he continued.
Eluay also urged Papuans involved in activities that could disrupt public security and order to cease such actions and work together to maintain peace in the region.
This appeal follows a protest against transmigration policies to Papua that escalated into clashes between demonstrators and security forces at the Abepura Roundabout in Jayapura City on Friday, November 15, 2024.
