Wamena, (KT) – Hengky Heselo, a tribal leader from Jayawijaya, Papua Highlands, urged the community not to respond to provocative calls or statements made by Beny Wenda ahead of the 2024 general election. Hengky believes such appeals have the potential to disrupt stability and public order.
“As the Head of Lantipo Village and a Tribal Leader, I would like to remind all Papuans not to be easily influenced by Beny Wenda’s calls. These appeals lack a clear foundation and do not bring any benefit to us. Let’s work together to ensure the elections proceed smoothly, safely, and peacefully,” Hengky stated during his press release on Monday, January 22, 2023.
Hengky emphasized that Beny Wenda, who resides abroad, does not directly experience the conditions in Papua. According to him, listening to such calls will only have negative consequences for the people. Currently, Papuans are living in peace and continue to benefit from various development initiatives driven by the government, particularly through the ongoing Special Autonomy program.
“For anyone influenced and reluctant to participate in the election due to Beny Wenda’s calls, I firmly state that as a tribal leader, I will still take part in the elections according to existing regulations. We are part of the Republic of Indonesia, and I encourage everyone not to let provocation divide us,” he stressed.
Hengky also noted that Beny Wenda’s various statements in the media do not reflect the current reality in Papua. He highlighted how such accusations are often baseless and contradict the continuous progress in Papua’s development.
“If Beny Wenda wants to speak about Papua, he should come and see for himself. Don’t make statements that stir unrest from abroad. Such provocations only harm the community. Here, we live in peace, and I hope that continues. Wa wa wa…,” Hengky concluded.
