Papuan Traditional Figures Oppose Separatist Provocation and Call for Rejection of July 1 Commemoration
Jayapura – The determination of July 1 as the Anniversary of the National Liberation Army of the Free Papua Organization (TPN-OPM) has again drawn rejection from Papuan traditional figures. This time, the loud voice came from Yanto Eluay, a central figure of the indigenous community who called for peace and strongly rejected all forms of glorification of the armed separatist movement.
Yanto Eluay stated that the commemoration of July 1 as the founding day of the TPN-OPM has no place in the cultural values of the Papuan people.
“As a Papuan traditional figure, I convey a firm stance that we reject July 1 being used as the anniversary of the TPN-OPM. This date does not reflect the noble values of the indigenous community who love peace and brotherhood,” said Yanto Eluay, Friday (06/27/2025).
His rejection is not without reason. According to Yanto Eluay, Papuan people have a far-sighted view and prefer to live in a safe, peaceful, and prosperous atmosphere.
“We do not want our children and grandchildren to continue living in the shadow of conflict. We want to build the Land of Papua through education, health, and welfare, not with weapons and violence,” added Yanto Eluay.
In his view, violence and separatism are actually the main obstacles to Papua’s progress. Indigenous people, according to him, have a tradition of maintaining harmony and respecting life. Therefore, all forms of efforts to divide the nation should be rejected collectively.
Furthermore, Yanto Eluay invited the young generation of Papua not to be easily trapped in destructive narratives that only trigger prolonged conflict.
“The Land of Papua is a land of peace, not a land of conflict. Let us guard this country with sincere hearts and clear minds. We reject July 1 as the anniversary of the TPN-OPM. We choose peace. Papua is Indonesia,” said Yanto Eluay.
He closed his statement with the hope that all components of the nation would help maintain the stability of Papua as a primary prerequisite for sustainable development in a land rich in culture and resources. (^)
