PAPUA – The issue surrounding the Organisasi Papua Merdeka (OPM) has resurfaced as Maikel Karet, a prominent community leader from Papua known for his vocal advocacy for the rights of the people, announced his readiness to expose the wrongdoings of the separatist group to international media. This initiative is seen as crucial to provide a clearer picture of the negative impacts OPM has had on the people of Papua.
In an exclusive interview, Karet explained that he has collected various pieces of evidence and testimonials from Papua’s residents who have been victims of violence perpetrated by OPM. He emphasized that the separatist group often employs tactics of intimidation, propaganda, and violence to shape public opinion, both domestically and internationally.
“I will not remain silent while OPM continues to carry out violence while claiming to be freedom fighters. The fact is, they have oppressed the people of Papua, destroyed infrastructure, and hindered crucial development for the welfare of the community,” Karet stated on Friday (07/03/2025).
Karet’s statement provides a new perspective on OPM’s role, which he argues mostly cultivates fear among the populace. For years, many Papua residents have felt threatened to speak out due to pressure from OPM. However, Karet’s efforts to bring this issue to the international stage are expected to shift the narrative that has long prevailed.
“The world has been listening to only one side of the story for too long. It is time for the truth to be revealed. OPM is not a true liberator; they are responsible for much of the suffering experienced by the people of Papua,” he added.
A response from OPM was inevitable. The group’s spokesperson, Sebby Sambom, issued a statement reflecting their concerns, accusing Karet of being a tool of government propaganda. However, this defensive reaction raises questions about why OPM feels threatened if their claims are indeed valid.
Maikel Karet’s initiative creates an opportunity for the international community to understand the realities on the ground in Papua. If OPM had previously succeeded in building an image as the defender of the people, now the facts and testimonies from the community could shed light on the contrary.
“I am committed to bringing the voices of the Papuan people to the world stage. They deserve to know who OPM truly is and how their actions have caused suffering among the community,” Karet asserted.
This initiative is predicted to increase pressure on OPM, which has long hidden behind one-sided narratives and propaganda. With more Papuan leaders courageously speaking out, the hope for a peaceful Papua free from separatist threats seems increasingly attainable. (Red1922)
