JAYAPURA — The Wikaya Keerom Tribal Chief, Herman Albert Yoku, has called on all Papuans to uphold the unity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) and to avoid being influenced by movements or groups he described as attempting to undermine national stability. He emphasized that Papua’s status as part of Indonesia is legally recognized under international law. (Friday, 5 December 2025).
Herman stressed that Papua’s integration into Indonesia was finalized in 1963 and reaffirmed through the 1969 Act of Free Choice (Pepera), which was acknowledged by the United Nations. According to him, movements such as the West Melanesia group, KNPB, and ULMWP are factions without legitimacy.
“All activities carried out by West Melanesia, KNPB, and ULMWP are unclear and illegitimate factions. Papua’s political status is settled. There is no space for them, and the UN will not listen,” he asserted.
He also addressed human rights (HAM) issues that are often linked to these groups ahead of Human Rights Day. Herman argued that these efforts merely exploit the momentum to create unrest, and he rejected the narrative that systematic human rights violations are occurring in Papua.
“There are no human rights violations taking place. Do not link Human Rights Day to NKRI, because every country has its own legal system,” he said.
Herman further urged Papuans to continue their daily activities—business owners, civil servants, TNI–Polri personnel, and the general public—especially as Christmas and New Year celebrations approach. He reminded the community to avoid involvement in unlawful activities, including gatherings that could lead to chaos, such as the recent disruptive incident at a concert.
“Do not organize prohibited events. And for concert enthusiasts, do not cause trouble. Security and organizers bear responsibility for enforcing this,” he stated.
In closing, Herman invited all Christians in Papua to welcome Christmas on 25 December and the New Year on 1 January 2026 with peace, mutual respect, and unity.
“In this month of peace, let us live side by side in harmony. Be good citizens and love the Republic of Indonesia, which is blessed by God,” he concluded.
