Jayapura- Chairman of the Keerom Traditional Council, Jakobus Mekawa, issued a firm statement responding to rumors circulating regarding the efforts of certain groups to disrupt the implementation of the 2024 regional elections in Papua.
Jakobus said that groups that are resistant to the government are calling on the public to boycott the regional elections which will be held on November 27.
Responding to this issue, Jakobus together with representatives of the Keerom Regency community emphasized the importance of calm and unity in society. He appealed to the public not to be provoked by groups that try to divide them.
“I invite parties who are at odds with the government to stop efforts to pit themselves against one another which could have an impact on security stability in Papua,” stressed Jakobus.
Jakobus explained that as a society that lives close to traditional values, every citizen needs to appreciate all forms of change that bring goodness. He emphasized that the progress achieved through democratic processes such as the Pilkada will provide long-term benefits for all Papuan people.
“This regional election is for all of us, both old, young and women. Everyone has participated at the district, city, provincial and central levels,” he said.
Jakobus emphasized that the call to boycott the Pilkada was an action that was detrimental to the Papuan people themselves.
“Those who refuse to hold elections are actually fooling the Papuan people and harming themselves,” said Jakobus at a press conference with the Keerom Traditional Council youth group on Tuesday (30/7/2024).
He emphasized that not exercising the right to vote is an unwise attitude, because voting is one way to advance society.
Jakobus also invited all Papuan people to take advantage of this Pilkada moment as an opportunity to achieve shared prosperity. He made an analogy of the importance of preparing a “bridge” for future generations so that they no longer have to struggle to cross the “sea” of difficulties.
“As a traditional leader, I ask all Papuan people not to be provoked by irresponsible groups,” said Jakobus.
He emphasized that the provocation to reject the Pilkada was a unilateral action that prioritized personal interests over common interests.
In his closing, Jakobus stated that groups that reject Pilkada are obstacles to Papua’s progress. He emphasized that the progress achieved will be enjoyed by the entire community, including those who currently reject it.
“As a traditional leader and youth, I ask groups or parties who are threatening to boycott this Pilkada to stop provocations that are detrimental to other people and the future of future Papuan generations,” he concluded.
