#pngsun #news #regional: The PNG Government is so silent on West Papua despite killings, displacement, and a minimum of 15,000 refugees crossing over to the country, especially in Western and Sandaun Provinces, Deputy Opposition Leader James Donald told Parliament yesterday.
Mr Donald said that the situation in West Papua constitutes a clear breach of the UN Declaration of Rights of Indigenous People, the UN Charter, and the Fiduciary Discipline of International Law.
He stressed that the government refused to say even a single word to take the lead:
"That is not a neutral position; that is a fear, and it undermines our dignity as Melanesians."
Mr. Donald claimed that no government actions are a blatant neglect of human rights cases and regional security issues.
During Question Time in Parliament yesterday (Wednesday), Mr Donald took Prime Minister James Marape to task over the plights of the Melanesian people on the Western side of the greater New Guinea Island.
●Why is the PNG government unwilling to issue statements, address regions, and the refugees concerning the issues of West Papua?
●What actually is the government afraid of?
●Why can we not establish a Parliamentary Committee for inquiry into what matters?
●Is this a highlight of Foreign Policy, or is it submission to Indonesia?
●Can the Prime Minister confirm where the PNG Foreign Policy is effectively applied to West Papua?
In response, PM Marape says Papua New Guinea respects Indonesia’s sovereignty but stands firm on Melanesian Human Rights advocacy.
Mr Marape assured Parliament that while PNG maintains its policy of respecting the sovereignty and integrity of the Republic of Indonesia, his government remains committed to advocating for Melanesian human rights.
The Prime Minister clarified the distinction, stressing that sovereignty and human rights are separate matters that PNG addresses through proper diplomatic channels.
“James Marape, and the Pangu-led Government, on that matter, we must always advocate for Melanesian Human Rights."
"I want to offer counsel to all of us: Sovereignty is different from human rights. Sovereignty is a different matter, so we must fully respect the sovereignty and integrity of the Republic of Indonesia,” said PM Marape.
"However, when it comes to human rights matters, there is no element of fear toward Indonesia and no element of control by the foreign policy of Indonesia."
PM Marape confirmed that PNG has maintained a bilateral relationship with the Indonesian President since 1975.
"There is no change in foreign policy regarding respect for the sovereignty and integrity of Indonesia."
He compared the situation to the domestic challenge: "We have a test of sovereignty running as I speak today on the Bougainville Referendum issue.
“Therefore, we have no moral right to talk about other nations' sovereignty issues."
Governor Allan Bird raised a point of order, stating the question related to "government policy, not Marape’s feelings on the matter."
PM Marape responded that his personal views and government views are held "together in the office I hold."
The government's view is related to two perspectives:
●Foreign Policy has no changes regarding respect for sovereignty.
●Commitment to human rights is maintained.
PM Marape confirmed he advocates for human rights in Melanesia at every forum, including the Pacific Islands Forum, MSG Forum, and UN forums.
"I want to tell this house that Marape is not silent on human rights issues in all diplomatic channels."
“The Member for North-Fly and the Member for Tari stand with you on this issue."
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