Jayapura, Indonesia — September 5, 2025
Ali Kabiay, Secretary General of the Barisan Merah Putih (BMP) Papua, has called on United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) leader Benny Wenda to cease what he described as “public deception” regarding Papua’s political status.
Responding to Wenda’s recent claims that Papua is ready to separate from Indonesia, Kabiay emphasized that such statements do not reflect the reality on the ground. “Benny Wenda does not live in Papua and has no direct involvement in the development of our region,” Kabiay said. “His narrative misleads the public and undermines the progress we are making.”
Kabiay asserted that the Papuan people are focused on development and collaboration with the Indonesian government. He also highlighted that Papua’s status as part of Indonesia has been internationally recognized, including by the United Nations.
“There is no agenda at the UN regarding Papua’s separation. Papua is Indonesia, and that is a historical and legal fact,” he stated.
Kabiay urged foreign governments and international organizations to refrain from interfering in Indonesia’s internal affairs, particularly in relation to Papua. He stressed that sustainable welfare for Papuans can only be achieved through unity and constructive engagement.
