Jayapura, Papua — Acting Governor of Papua, Agus Fatoni, has called on all civil servants (ASN) and the public to work together in preserving a peaceful, safe, and stable environment across Papua ahead of the upcoming 2025 Gubernatorial Election Revote (PSU), scheduled for August 6.
The appeal was delivered during a joint assembly for the Declaration of Civil Servant Neutrality and the Signing of the Integrity Pact, held at the Papua Governor’s Office courtyard on Monday morning (July 21, 2025). The event was attended by regional leadership coordination forum (Forkopimda) members, vertical agencies, SOE and regional-owned enterprise leaders, university officials, and representatives from the General Elections Commission (KPU) and Election Supervisory Board (Bawaslu). Local government leaders across Papua participated virtually.
In his address, Fatoni emphasized the critical role of ASN neutrality in ensuring a credible and democratic electoral process. “Neutrality and integrity are not just symbolic gestures. They must be reflected in our conduct and service as state apparatus,” he said.
During the event, the pledge of neutrality and integrity was read aloud by the Acting Provincial Secretary and followed by the symbolic signing of the integrity pact by regional heads of departments and agency leaders. The pledge outlined a strong commitment by civil servants to uphold impartiality in public service, avoid conflicts of interest, refrain from spreading misinformation or hate speech, and reject all forms of money politics.
Fatoni reiterated that while civil servants have the right to vote, they are strictly prohibited from engaging in political activities to maintain the integrity of public service. He encouraged all ASN to stay focused on their duties and continue delivering quality public service.
“Civil servants are the driving force of government. Neutrality is non-negotiable. Vote wisely, but maintain institutional impartiality,” he stressed.
To encourage voter participation, Fatoni has issued a circular—Governor’s Decree No. 200.2/7558/SET dated July 11, 2025—declaring election day a public holiday across Papua. “This will ensure all eligible voters have the opportunity to cast their ballots without disruption,” he explained.
Beyond election-related concerns, Fatoni also urged civil servants to accelerate work performance and budget realization to support regional development and economic recovery. He called for increased spending efficiency to boost local purchasing power and community welfare.
“Development must continue, public services must improve, and people’s livelihoods must be uplifted. Don’t settle for routine work—be innovative and proactive,” he emphasized.
Fatoni reminded civil servants of their strategic role in society and encouraged them to lead by example at work, in the family, and within their communities. He noted that dedication to public service ultimately benefits not only the institution but also contributes meaningfully to national progress and personal career development.
“Civil servants must set a positive example. Your hard work isn’t just for your superiors—it’s an investment in a better future for Papua,” he said.
To uphold the province’s public image, Fatoni urged all ASN to actively use social media to promote the government’s work and highlight positive narratives about Papua. He expressed hope that digital platforms would become a space filled with educational and constructive content, countering hoaxes and divisive rhetoric.
“Publicize government achievements. Show that the state is present. Let’s fill the online space with inspiring stories about Papua. A peaceful, tolerant, and proud Papua is what we must all defend and advance,” he concluded.
