ULMWP Leader met Prime Minister Manele to discuss West Papua’s bid for MSG membership

By Alfred Pagepitu

The President of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), Benny Wenda, visited the country to seek support for their application for full membership into the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG).

On Tuesday, Mr. Wenda met with Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele to discuss issues related to West Papua’s MSG membership.

He told SIBC News that it was a great honor to meet with Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and discuss the issues affecting the people of West Papua.

“It’s a great honor for me to meet with the Prime Minister and listen to the story of West Papua.”

“I am here to remind our leaders of the call for our full membership, which has been going on for almost 10 years, and we know that the history started here in the Solomon Islands during former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare’s endorsement of our application as an observer.”

“So, I am back to meet with the current Prime Minister Manele to brief him on the situation in West Papua.”

Wenda’s team is visiting other Pacific Island countries to discuss their issues and consider their call.

“I am going around lobbying with my teams for the upcoming MSG meeting and also the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). They need to reiterate the call, and the Prime Minister assured me that we will discuss this issue prior to the Pacific Island Forum meeting in Tonga.”

“I hope to continue the discussion, and we hope the Prime Minister will consider our call,” Wenda said.

West Papua needs Melanesian leaders to make a bold decision to grant West Papua the full membership so that they can engage and participate fully.

“We’ve been coming here every year for almost 12 years, to Solomon Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea, to tell them what is happening in our country.”

Wenda emphasized that West Papua is a brother to Melanesian countries by blood, race, culture, and geography, and that they are entitled to become a true Melanesian nation that wants freedom and full membership.

Meanwhile, Wenda and his team will travel to other parts of Melanesia, including Papua New Guinea and Fiji after their visit to Vanuatu and Solomon Islands.

The team also met with civil society groups, West Papua sympathisers and political leaders, telling them that the support of everyone is important for advancing the MSG bid.

Benny Wenda is a West Papuan Independence Leader who founded the Free West Papua Campaign in 2004. He works tirelessly to ensure self determination for West Papua.

ENDS//

Wale slams PM’s hypocritical stand on West Papua

LEADER of Opposition Hon Matthew Wale has expressed disappointment with the Prime Minister’s stand on the West Papua issue labelling it as ‘hypocritical’.

Hon Wale said the current Prime Minister used to be a strong supporter and advocator for West Papua in the past but he has taken a 180-degree on the issue.

“I am actually not surprised that the Prime Minister has changed face on the West Papua issue. It is a shame and hypocritical of him because he was a very strong supporter in the past,” Hon Wale said.

The Opposition Leader has reaffirmed his view that West Papuans themselves should be afforded the opportunity to express their vote on self-determination under an internationally supervised referendum.

Based on the membership criteria set by MSG, Hon Wale has also questioned how Caledonia’s FLNKS are measured against those?

“It is hypocrisy to stand with New Caledonia for independence from France and then support Indonesian sovereignty over West Papua. Why the double standard?” he questioned.

Hon Wale said MSG Leaders need to rethink their stand and the Prime Minister should have maintained Solomon Islands stand on West Papua.

The Opposition Leader said both the FLNKS and West Papuans are Melanesian peoples and both desire independence.

He said West Papua has been under very oppressive schematic & systematic Indonesian colonial rule, far worse than anything New Caledonia has suffered and MSG Leaders know better.

– Opposition Press

MSG leaders defer Papua membership decision to Forum

The leaders of five Melanesian countries and territories avoided a definitive update on the status of the United Liberation Movement of West Papua's application for full membership in Port Vila.

However, the 22nd Melanesian Spearhead Group Leaders' Summit was hailed as the "most memorable and successful" by Vanuatu's prime minister as leaders signed off on two new declarations in their efforts to make the sub-region more influential.

As well as the hosts, the meeting was attended by Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Fiji and the FLNKS of New Caledonia.

But the meeting had an anti-climactic ending after the leaders failed to release the details about the final outcomes or speak to media.

The first agreement that was endorsed is the Udaune Declaration on Climate Change to address the climate crisis and "urging countries not to discharge potentially harmful treated nuclear contaminated water into the Pacific Ocean".

"Unless the water treated is incontrovertibly proven, by independent scientists, to be safe to do and seriously consider other options," Vanuatu Prime Minister Alatoi Ishmael Kalsakau said at the event's farewell dinner on Thursday.

The leaders also signed off on the Efate Declaration on Mutual Respect, Cooperation and Amity to advance security initiatives and needs of the Melanesian countries.

This document aims to "address the national security needs in the MSG region through the Pacific Way kipung, tok stori, talanoa, and storian and bonded by shared values and adherence to the Melanesian vuvale, cultures and traditions," Kalsakau said.

Kalsakau said the leaders "took complex issues such as climate change, denuclearisation, and human rights and applied collective wisdom" to address the issues that were on the table.

Passing on Papua

The issue of the United Liberation Movement of West Papua's membership was a big ticket item on the agenda at the meeting in Port Vila according to MSG chair Kalsakau.

However, there was no update provided on it and the leaders avoided fronting up to the media except for photo opportunities.

Benny Wenda at the 22 Melanesian Spearhead Group Leaders' Summit in Port Vila. 22 August 2023 Photo: RNZ Pacific / Kelvin Anthony

ULMWP leader Benny Wenda (above) told RNZ Pacific late on Thursday he was still not aware of the result of their membership application but that he was "confident" about it.

"I don't know the outcome. Maybe this evening the leaders will announce at the reception," Wenda said.

"From the beginning I have been confident that this is the time for the leaders to give us full membership so we can engage with Indonesia."

According to the MSG Secretariat the final communique is now expected to be released on Friday.

However, it is likely that the West Papua issue will be referred to the Pacific Islands Forum to be dealt with.

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape said after the signing: "on the issues that was raised in regards to West Papua…these matters to be handled at [Pacific Islands Forum]".

"The leaders from the Pacific will also visit Jakarta and Paris" to raise issues about sovereignty and human rights," he said.

Kalsakau said he looked forward to progressing the implementaiton of important issue recommendations from the 22nd MSG Leaders' Summit which also include "supporting the 2019 call by the Forum Leaders for a visit by the OHCHR to West Papua".

MSG leaders drink kava to mark the end of the meeting and signing two declarations. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Kelvin Anthony

Indonesia proud

Indonesia's Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Pahala Mansury, said Indonesia is proud to be part of the Melanesian family.

Indonesia is an associate member of MSG and have said they do not accept ULMWP's application to become a full member because it goes against the MSG's founding principles and charter.

During the meeting this week, Indonesian delegates walked out on occasions when ULMWP representatives made their intervention.

Some West Papua campaigners say these actions showed that Indonesia does not understand the Melanesian way.

"You just don't walk out of a sacred meeting haus when you're invited to be part of it," one observer said.

However, Mansury said Indonesia hopes to "continue to increase, enhance and strengthen future collaboration between Indonesia and all of the Melanesian countries".

"We are actually brothers and sisters of Melanesia and we hope we can continue to strengthen the bond together," he said.

Australia and China attended as special guests at the invitation of the Vanuatu government.

China supported the Vanuatu government to host the meeting.

Melanesian Leaders Sign Security and Climate Change Declarations

Melanesian Prime Ministers have affixed their signatures to two declarations addressing the pressing issues of climate change and national security.

The ceremonial signing took place at the Havannah Resort in north Efate yesterday, marking the culmination of the 22nd Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Leaders’ Summit Retreat.

The distinguished signatories of these declarations include Prime Minister (PM) Ishmael Kalsakau of Vanuatu, PM Manasseh Sogavare of Solomon Islands, PM James Marape of Papua New Guinea, PM Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji, and Victor Tutugoro, spokesperson of the Kanak Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS).

The history of these agreements commenced with the inaugural accord inked in Lakatoro, Malekula, in 1994. Subsequent gatherings saw the signing of a second pact in Port Vila in 1998, followed by the third document signed during a Leaders’ Summit held in the Solomon Islands.

PM Kalsakau expressed satisfaction with the Summit’s proceedings, highlighting the successful collaboration that yielded two comprehensive documents. He noted that these papers are both content-rich and orderly in outlining MSG’s strategic course on matters of importance to the region’s populace.

He acknowledged the impactful presence of strong and visionary leadership, which serves to refine the direction and purpose of Melanesia, ensuring it remains steadfastly on the right course.He further expressed his contentment with the summit’s conclusion, characterising it as a joyous occasion.

“To ensure the safeguarding of Melanesia’s wellbeing and to achieve the highest levels of contentment among its people on the horizon, we have united as a collective whole,” PM Kalsakau remarked. He extended gratitude to his esteemed colleagues for their invaluable contributions to shaping the final outcomes.

Concluding his address, he invoked blessings upon the people of Melanesia and expressed his profound gratitude for the presence of all attendees. This unity and collaboration, he affirmed, is the cornerstone of progress for the entire region.

To further solidify this agreement, the leaders partook in a tradition deeply rooted in Vanuatu culture – sharing a shell of kava to conclude the regional diplomatic dialogue.

doddy@dailypost.vu

Wenda: West Papua Ready for Full Membership in MSG Today

Benny Wenda, the Interim President of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), has welcomed the Melanesian Spearhead Group’s (MSG) confirmation that the ULMWP’s application will be discussed at the 22nd MSG Leaders’ Summit in Port Vila today.

Wenda conveyed the anticipation of West Papua’s populace, including those in exile, who await their potential accession as an MSG member.

Reflecting on the unity of various West Papuan groups, including the West Papua Council of Churches, Wenda mentioned that 25 representatives are currently in Port Vila to celebrate the MSG leaders’ decision if it grants West Papua full membership.

Despite previous attempts during past Leaders’ summits, Wenda expressed confidence that this time their application will be accepted, reflecting their aspiration for a rightful place within the Melanesian family.

“Our dream, our desire — by blood and race — entitles us to be a member.

“Today in West Papua, seven regional executives support our cause. Our people support it. Intimidation and harassment from Indonesia are happening right now.

“We aren’t seeking independence, just full membership. In Indonesia, there is no hope, and now it is time for the leaders to make the right decision,” Wenda asserted.

Acknowledging their long-standing lobbying efforts, Wenda noted that their pursuit has been ongoing. He referenced the 2013 MSG Leaders Summit in Noumea, New Caledonia, where leaders voiced support for their self-determination, recognising the unity among the West Papuan people.

In 2014, Vanuatu hosted a meeting to gather all West Papua factions at the Malvatumauri National Council of Chiefs nakamal.

“In 2014, we gathered all factions in West Papua for the ULMWP. In 2015, during the MSG Leaders’ Summit in Solomon Islands, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare advocated for full MSG membership for West Papua, but we were granted Observer status instead,” Wenda said. “We are now pushing for full membership because we’ve met the criteria, making it time for the leaders to agree.

“This is the moment the entire world, all Melanesians, are watching. It’s a test for the leaders to see if they will stand up for West Papua in the eyes of the world.”

He commented on their vulnerable position due to the atrocities committed against them by Indonesia, which has resulted in their minority status.

Presently, ULMWP holds observer status within the MSG, while Indonesia is an associated member.

The MSG consists of member countries Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Fiji, and the Front de Libération Nationale Kanak et Socialiste (FLNKS) of New Caledonia.

The three visiting MSG Prime Ministers — Sitiveni Rabuka from Fiji, James Marape from Papua New Guinea and Manasseh Sogavare from Solomon Islands — are already in Port Vila.

The FLNKS will be represented by its former president, Victor Tutugoro.

The 22nd MSG Leaders’ Summit, chaired by Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau of Vanuatu, will commence with a ceremonial welcome by chiefs at Saralana at 9 o’clock this morning.

The official remarks will be followed by the unveiling of carvings at the MSG Secretariat, the Leaders’ Retreat at Warwick Le Lagon, and a plenary session.

West Papua on MSG Summit Agenda 23-24 August 2023

West Papua

This year's agenda also includes the issue of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua's application to become a full member of the sub-regional body.

The movement is present at the meeting, as well as a big delegation from Indonesia, represented by its vice minister for foreign affairs.

However, neither Seremaiah nor Louma made any mention of West Papua in their opening statements.

West Papua observers and advocates at the meeting say the MSG is like a "custom haus or nakamal" for the Melanesian people.

They say Vanuatu has the opportunity to make this more than a "normal MSG" if it can be the country that gets the MSG Leaders' Summit to agree to make the ULMWP a full member

Senior MSG official calls for sub-region to remain neutral in global power battle

Kelvin Anthony

Melanesian Spearhead Group Secretariat's director general Leonard Louma says the Pacific region continues to be the centre of geopolitical interests by global superpowers.

The 22nd MSG Leaders' Summit is taking place in Port Vila this week - the first full in-person meeting since the covid pandemic.

The prime ministers of Fiji, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and the president of the FLNKS of New Caledonia are confirmed to attend the leaders' session on Wednesday.

Louma said the battle for influence "impels the region to take sides, but it does not protect Melanesia and the region".

"There are some who would like us to believe that taking sides in that geopolitical posturing is in our best interest. May I hasten to add, I tend to defer, it is not in our best interest to take sides," Louma said

Senior MSG official calls for sub-region to remain neutral in global power battle

7:18 pm on 22 August 2023 

Kelvin Anthony, in Port Vila

@kelvinfiji kelvin.anthony@rnz.co.nz

Vanuatu's deputy prime minister Matai Seremaiah, left, and MSG director general Leonard Louma at the opening of the 22nd MSG Leaders's Summit Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Port Vila. 21 August 2023Vanuatu's deputy prime minister Matai Seremaiah, left, and MSG director general Leonard Louma at the opening of the 22nd MSG Leaders's Summit Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Port Vila. 21 August 2023 Photo: RNZ Pacific / Kelvin Anthony

Melanesian Spearhead Group Secretariat's director general Leonard Louma says the Pacific region continues to be the centre of geopolitical interests by global superpowers.

The 22nd MSG Leaders' Summit is taking place in Port Vila this week - the first full in-person meeting since the covid pandemic.

The prime ministers of Fiji, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and the president of the FLNKS of New Caledonia are confirmed to attend the leaders' session on Wednesday.

Louma said the battle for influence "impels the region to take sides, but it does not protect Melanesia and the region".

"There are some who would like us to believe that taking sides in that geopolitical posturing is in our best interest. May I hasten to add, I tend to defer, it is not in our best interest to take sides," Louma said.

MSG Leaders' Summit has a packed agenda duration4′ :05″ Playlist Download

MSG Leaders' Summit has a packed agenda

The director general also took aim at MSG member countries for not moving with "urgency" on issues that have been on the Leaders' Summit agenda.

"Certain decisions also made by leaders and the foreign ministers of past continue to languish on the shelf and there seems to be no real sign of a desire to implement."

Free trade

Louma said the MSG Free Trade Agreement has "somehow been tethered to other training and commercial arrangements".

"Our enthusiasm to cooperate appears to have waned. We need to rejuvenate this enthusiasm and appetite for industrial cooperation that once was the hallmark of MSG," said.

Vanuatu's Foreign Minister Matai Seremaiah has urged Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea to sign up to the trade agreement which has already been signed by Fiji and Solomon Islands.

Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau told RNZ Pacific he shared the concerns of his deputy on the issue of the free trade agreement.

"Vanuatu must adhere quickly. If you look at the theme of the meeting it's about being relevant and being relevant means that we've got got to participate as a core group so that we can advance all our interests together," he said.

Leonard Louma said the MSG needs to make concessions where it was needed in the interests of MSG cohesion.

"The nuclear testing issue in the Pacific could not have proceeded the way we had proceeded without MSG taking a strong position on it."

Declarations

On Monday, MSG Secretariat officials said there were up to 10 issues on the agenda, including West Papua.

In his opening statement at the Foreign Minister's session on Monday, Seremaiah said there were two key draft declarations that will be put for the leaders' consideration.

The first one will be one climate action and "urging polluters not to discharge the treated water in the Pacific Ocean," he said.

"Until and unless the treated water is incontrovertibly proven to be safe to do so and seriously consider other options."

The second is a declaration on MSG region of peace and neutrality, adding "this declaration is aimed at advancing the implementation of the MSG security initiatives to address national security needs in the MSG region, through the Pacific way, talanoa or tok stori and binded by shared values and adherence to Melanesian vuvale, cultures and traditions.

West Papua

This year's agenda also includes the issue of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua's application to become a full member of the sub-regional body.

The movement is present at the meeting, as well as a big delegation from Indonesia, represented by its vice minister for foreign affairs.

However, neither Seremaiah nor Louma made any mention of West Papua in their opening statements.

West Papua observers and advocates at the meeting say the MSG is like a "custom haus or nakamal" for the Melanesian people.

They say Vanuatu has the opportunity to make this more than a "normal MSG" if it can be the country that gets the MSG Leaders' Summit to agree to make the ULMWP a full member

MSG PRE-SUMMIT SENIOR OFFICIALS MEETING CONCLUDES

PORT VILA, VANUATU (19 August 2023): The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Pre-Summit Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) has just concluded at the MSG Secretariat.

Its outcomes will be deliberated on at the MSG Pre-Summit Foreign Ministers Meeting (FMM) scheduled for Monday. 

 

Both meetings precede the upcoming 22nd MSG Leader's Summit, the pre-eminent decision-making body of the MSG which begins on Wednesday.

Vanuatu is currently Chair of the MSG.

MSG Leaders’ Summit next week in Vanuatu

The 22nd Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Leaders’ Summit will be held in Port Vila next week.

The MSG leaders summit was postponed last month.

The 22nd MSG Leaders’ Summit is scheduled for 22-23 August, 2023 in Port Vila.

The application for United Liberation Movement for West Papua (UMLWP) as a full member of MSG is expected to be on the agenda at this Leaders’ Meeting…

SOURCE: PACNEWS

MSG Summit in Port Vial, Vanuatu to be Held 23-24 August 2023

THE Pacific Conference of Churches Supports ULMWP'S Full Membership ar MSG

THE Pacific Conference of Churches, Youngsolwara dan Free West Papua Campaign telah meningkatkan seruan kepada para pemimpin Melanesia dan sesama negara kepulauan Pasifik untuk secara resmi mengakui

West Papua sebagai anggota resmi Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG).

Juru bicara internasional untuk Kampanye Papua Barat Raki Ap mengatakan sangat mengecewakan bahwa Indonesia diizinkan menjadi anggota MSG tetapi Papua Barat hanyalah anggota pengamat.

Dia mengatakan ketika para pemimpin Pasifik terus menutup mata terhadap pelanggaran HAM berat yang terjadi di Papua Barat, terserah kepada orang-orang di lapangan untuk menekan para pemimpin mereka untuk bertindak.

Mr Ap saat ini mengunjungi negara-negara Melanisia untuk memperkuat kemitraan organisasi masyarakat sipil dan organisasi nonpemerintah dalam kampanye Papua Barat.

Melanesian Leaders Summit Postponed

The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Leaders Summit proposed to be held from July 17 to 21 is postponed to another date, which is yet to be confirmed.

This was confirmed by the Foreign Affairs Minister and Deputy Prime Minister (DPM), Jotham Napat. He said the MSG Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting last month proposed this date pending confirmation from each member country.

Foreign Affairs Minister Napat said they have received a confirmation from the government of Solomon Islands noting they have a clash with their Parliament Sitting, therefore the meeting had to be rescheduled.

“Vanuatu’s Prime Minister as Chair of the MSG will write to the members for them to reschedule the meeting on another date where every leaders are available to complete their issues,” he told the Daily Post.

“For Vanuatu, July is already full of activities. The President of France is arriving soon. We are looking at organising the meeting in August.”

Asked to confirm whether the endorsement of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (UMLWP) as a full member of MSG is going to be an agenda at this Leaders Meeting, the DPM replied that this was not discussed at the MSG Foreign Affairs Minister Meeting.

He explained that the Foreign Affairs Minister Meeting discussed only the budget and its approval, however the application for UMLWP becoming a full member will be discussed in a retreat by the MSG Prime Ministers before any adoption. Vanuatu has strongly been supporting this agenda.

The Jakarta Globe reported that the DPM and Foreign Affairs Minister has discussed the possibility of Vanuatu opening an embassy in Indonesia with his Indonesian counterpart during his visit there last month.

He said he told his counterpart about Vanuatu’s push for West Papua to be part of MSG. “Indonesia has been very frank about this matter. They consider West Papua as part of them and they told us that we (Vanuatu) are undermining their sovereignty.

“This does not stop us to keep pushing this agenda to the MSG Leaders to decide on it. It’s a sensitive issue that needs to be agreed by all leaders. Every decision are to be taken by consensus, it will be very difficult if some of the leaders are reluctant to support the agenda,” he said.

Indonesia has been providing scholarships for Papua New Guineans and Fijians to study abroad. Asked if such assistance could jeopardise Vanuatu’s push for West Papua, Minister Napat said: “Vanuatu is a sovereign country and it must decide on its own destiny and future.

“It is the same for PNG, it has its own sovereign right. Somewhere we (Vanuatu) have to find what is our interest, whether we continue pursuing the idea or we decide on a different path but continue advocate.

“You cannot be shouting from outside. You have to sit at the roundtable with them and talk so that they can hear you. It’s an interest for Vanuatu to pursue the matter, but when it comes to MSG its a collective decision.”

Source: Vanuatu Daily Post

The Pacific Conference of Churches Supports West Papua in MSG

The Pacific Conference of Churches continues to affirm its commitment to advocate and inspire actions in solidarity for the United Liberation Movement of West Papua (ULMWP) to become a full member of Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG).

This morning, the PCC hosted Civil Society partners alongside the ULMWP President Benny Wenda at a prayer vigil where the Morning Star flag was raised in Suva, ahead of the MSG Leaders’ Summit in Vanuatu next week.  

Mr Wenda presented the PCC General Secretary, Reverend James Bhagwan, with a new flag that symbolises hope and unity despite Indonesia’s blatant violations of West Papuans’ human rights. Reverend Bhagwan said it was significant to gesture linking the churches and people of the Pacific to focus their attention on the struggle of our sisters and brothers in Tanah Papua.

“PCC have been flying the Morning Star flag even though it was in tatters to remind us that while our family/vuvale in Papua are oppressed, displaced, repressed and face constant attacks on their dignity and human rights, they remain hopeful for their right to be self-determining,” Revered Bhagwan shared.

He said the new flag will continue to fly everyday as a sign of hope and reminder that the Pacific family is rallying behind the people of West Papua. “You do not go alone to that MSG meeting, you go with God and with us in your heart, knowing that while you await formal recognition of ULMWP as a full member of the Melanesian Spearhead Group, your Pacific Churches and Civil Society, the people of the Pacific have recognised the ULMWP as the political representative of the people of Tanah Papua,” he added. 

PCC alongside our partners will continue to engage in peaceful actions this week as we our support the call of the ULMWP and Government of Vanuatu to bring West Papua back to the MSG family by granting ULMWP full membership to the MSG and acknowledging the ULMWP as the main political representative of the people of West Papua.

12-07-2023

Ends.

#BREAKING | Ten West Papuan Activists Arrested for Distributing Leaflets Ahead of Peaceful Protest

#BREAKING | Ten West Papuan Activists Arrested for Distributing Leaflets Ahead of Peaceful Protest 

In a recent development, Indonesian Police and the Army have arrested ten West Papuan individuals who were distributing leaflets advocating for a peaceful demonstration scheduled for tomorrow, July 12. The demonstration aimed to garner support for the West Papua's bid for full membership in the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG).

The arrests took place earlier today at approximately 12:25 local time. The Indonesian authorities took swift action, detaining the activists and escorting them to the Jayapura Resort Police station in Sentani for questioning.

The names of the ten individuals who have been arrested are as follows:

1. Elinatan Basini

2. Ganip Kobak

3. Eko Enumbi

4. Rojer Wasini

5. Nobe Dogopia

6. Eki balingga

7. Naldo Felle

8. Anius Balyo

9. Nisman Murid

10. Erry Mimin

At the time of this news report, all ten detainees remain in custody at the police station, awaiting further investigation.

The West Papuan activists were seeking to raise awareness about the push for West Papua's full membership in the MSG, an important regional organization encompassing countries such as Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Kanaky, Fiji, and the Solomon Islands. Their peaceful action aimed to highlight the aspirations of the West Papuan people and gain support for their cause.

The international community will be closely watching the unfolding events and awaiting updates on the status and welfare of the arrested individuals.

#WestPapua #Melanesia #MSG4WestPapua #MSG #FreeWestPapua #FreeKanaky #FreeMelanesia

West Papua’s customary region leaders back full MSG membership

By Sanjeshni Kumar -June 19, 2023223 0

Seven executives representing all the customary regions of West Papua have declared their support for the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) gaining full membership of the Melanesian Spearhead Group.

The executives are of the ULMWP ‘provisional government’ in the Indonesian-ruled Melanesian region.

The ULMWP declared this political support in a statement in advance of the forthcoming MSG summit in Port Vila, Vanuatu.

ULMWP’s executive, legislative and judicial councils had earlier made a declaration in support of full membership in Jayapura on 04 June 2023.

ULMWP president Benny Wenda had separately announced his support for MSG full membership, saying “our agenda is now totally focused on consolidating support for full membership”.

According to the statement, the whole of the West Papuan liberation movement stood united behind the shared goal of MSG full membership.

The seven customary regions of West Papua and the executives representing them are: Anim-Ha Region – Mathias Tambai; Bomberay Region – Erik Fimbay; Domberay Region – Markus Yenu; Lapago Region – Herman Kossay; Mamta/Tabi Region – Beny Yantewo; Meepago Region – Habel Nawipa; Saireri Region – Edison Kendi.

While MSG membership comprises the Melanesian states of Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, there is a long-established precedent in a political grouping, the Kanak and Soclalist National Liberation Front (FLNKS), representing New Caledonia as a full member.

Meanwhile, the human rights watchdog Tapol reports that the Indonesian government “continues to tread on the right to peaceful free expression in West Papua”.

“This can be seen from arrests and treason charges against three members of the peaceful independence campaign group, the National Committee for West Papua (Komite Nasional Papua Barat, KNPB), in Tambrauw Regency, Southwest Papua province,” the agency said in a statement.

The arrests took place on 09 June 2023, in Sarwom village, where 19 people were taken into custody.

Those arrested were a mixture of members of the coordinating body for the KNPB from neighbouring Maybrat regency, as well as local members.

The head of West Papua area police claimed that those arrested had been proclaiming the founding of the KNPB in Tambrauw, and calling for the independence of West Papua from Indonesia.

Police also claimed that the group put up a fight, being arrested with TNI support.

However, activist groups stated that they were actually only eating food and drinking coffee together without disturbing anybody in the local area, when the police arrived with weapons.

Activist groups also fiercely denied the “police insinuation” that the KNPB had links to the West Papua National Liberation Army – Free Papua Movement (Pembebasan Nasional Papua Barat – Organisasi Papua Merdeka (TPNPB-OPM).

SOURCE: ASIA PACIFIC REPORT/PACNEWS

MSG Foreign Ministers Convene to Shape Agenda for Leaders Summit

The foreign ministers of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) member countries are gathering today at the MSG Secretariat in Port Vila.

Their purpose is to approve the agenda for the upcoming MSG Leaders Summit, scheduled to take place next month in Port Vila.

This meeting follows yesterday’s senior officials’ meeting, setting the stage for important discussions.

According to reports from the MSG Secretariat, the foreign ministers’ meeting will address nine agenda items that were previously discussed and approved during the senior officials’ meeting. These topics will be submitted for final approval during today’s gathering, ultimately forming the official agenda for the MSG Leaders Summit.

The MSG consists of five member countries: Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and the Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS) of New Caledonia.

Notably, there is an expectation that West Papua will be granted full membership during the upcoming MSG Leaders Summit, further expanding the group’s representation.

Currently, Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau serves as the chairman of the MSG, leading the discussions and facilitating collaboration among member countries.

Fiji looking into West Papua issue

 Edwin Nand, Senior Multimedia Journalist edwin.nand@fbc.com.fj | @EdwinNandFBCNews

Acting Prime Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has confirmed that Fiji is taking a multilateral approach to issues regarding West Papua which has been fighting for independence from Indonesia.
Speaking in parliament late yesterday, Sayed-Khaiyum confirmed the Fijian government’s position is to help uphold the rule of international law.
“We are working very closely with the MSG, Pacific Island Forum and the UN to ensure that we take this matter forward in a way that respects international law and that’s what we need to do because we believe in the rule of law and it should be maintained internationally – as we have our position similarly – in the South China Sea that international laws must apply.”
West Papua has support from some Melanesian countries which believe that it should gain independence from Indonesia.
There have also been issues of human rights abuses in the region.
Source: https://www.fbcnews.com.fj/

Melanesian Spearhead Group Role on West Papua Issue

By Ambassador Brian Yombon-Copio

West Papua has ongoing issues on human rights abuses and atrocities committed by Indonesia’s guided democracy regime. They have suffered for far too long on their motherland and felt that they should exist as an independent nation state which would guarantee them absolute freedom from these issues. Most importantly West Papuans view that they belong to a Melanesian race and they fear continued suffering at the hands of a populous mongoloid race. The West Papuans are an ethnic minority which has resultant ethnic similarities to Melanesians where they have same features, cultural values and norms and importantly they have closer proximity with PNG based on ancestral ties especially West Sepik and Western Provinces which draws back to many years.

The Melanesian countries have witnessed and sympathised on the sufferings of the West Papuans and they have overwhelming views against the abuse of human rights and atrocities. The Melanesian Spearhead Group (‘MSG’) which is the central forum for Melanesian peoples has indicated support for West Papua with their aspirations for a fully pledge independent nation. However PNG being the largest Melanesian country which is viewed to have potential influence has different views under successive political leaders and supported West Papua with reservations at the MSG level.

Nevertheless West Papua was admitted as an observer recently in the Melanesian bloc instead of a full membership. The current government views PNG’s regional standing and reputation which have been shaped by its commitment to Melanesian values which include stronger democracy, maintaining the rule of law, protection of human rights and increasing trade and economic aspects of development as significantly important. The MSG is an important partner in the pursuit of these values regionally. PNG is therefore viewed as a strong influence and ‘bread winner’ for other Melanesian countries and ethnic minorities within the region. Accordingly PNG Government’s change of politics on West Papua is timely.

Historically PNG has been forced into a difficult situation as previous governments reached an understanding with Indonesia that West Papua remains an integral part of the country and PNG should not offend Indonesia in supporting West Papua’s independence aspirations. As a result PNG’s position on the West Papua issues has been grasped with mixed reactions by other Melanesian countries which expected PNG to equally support West Papua’s agenda on its political future.

The Melanesian countries do not duly consider PNG’s closer proximity to Indonesia and the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries. However the MSG countries view PNG as a ‘bread winner’ for the rest of the smaller island nations. In other words, PNG is expected to act on behalf of smaller island countries regardless of its own position and pursue the interest of smaller island nations and other minor ethnic groups like West Papua and New Caledonia. Given PNG’s perceived leadership in the region, the MSG views that PNG has an obligation to deliver desired results for the benefit of minor ethnic groups which have formidable issues. However MSG solidarity is important and if collective determinations are reached, PNG has no option but to respect such and support the decisions for realisation in the interest of the MSG bloc. At the MSG level there has to be solidarity in most of the decisions reached by the MSG for a common good of Melanesian peoples.

There is overwhelming support for West Papua for its aspiration for self-determination from majority of the MSG members and PNG’s change in position should impact certainty to a larger degree. PNG should play a lead role in encouraging the MSG bloc to make representation to Indonesia with its collective determinations to address the issues of West Papua. It is strongly believed that Indonesia would respect PNG and sense that the collective determinations reflect the views of the MSG.

The major regional players like Australia and New Zealand also have vested interests and are aware that the West Papua agenda on independence has potential issues with their own interests with Indonesia. On the other, Australia and New Zealand might have their own foreign policies on PNG-Indonesian relations as they are absolutely aware of the impeding position of PNG. Given the scenario, Australia and New Zealand should support on the West Papua issues through regional dialogues to reach solutions which would satisfy both West Papua and Indonesia.

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West Papuan Liberation Movement applies for full MSG membership