Eight OPM Members in Kiwirok Pledge Loyalty to Indonesia, Surrender Firearms and Morning Star Flag, Offering New Hope for Peace in Papua

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Pegunungan Bintang, Papua Highlands — Eight members of the Tentara Pembebasan Nasional Papua Barat–Organisasi Papua Merdeka (TPNPB-OPM) from Kodap XV/Ngalum Kupel in Kiwirok District, Pegunungan Bintang Regency, Papua Highlands, have officially declared their return to the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). During the ceremony, they also surrendered several firearms and the Morning Star flag that had been in their possession.

The declaration of loyalty took place at Kiwirok District Field on June 10, 2026, and was attended by representatives of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), district authorities, village heads, customary leaders, religious figures, community leaders, and hundreds of residents from 12 villages across the Kiwirok area.

The event has been widely viewed as a significant step toward strengthening peace, security stability, and regional development in the Papua Highlands. Residents attending the ceremony expressed optimism for a safer and more prosperous future.

Chronology of the Return to the Republic of Indonesia

The event began with the singing of the Indonesian national anthem, Indonesia Raya, followed by a series of activities involving government representatives, security personnel, community leaders, and local residents. The ceremony was conducted in a solemn atmosphere and received broad support from the Kiwirok community.

The highlight of the event occurred when the eight TPNPB-OPM members voluntarily surrendered their firearms, handed over the Morning Star flag, signed a declaration of loyalty, publicly pledged allegiance to the Republic of Indonesia, and kissed the Indonesian Red-and-White flag as a symbol of their commitment to leave conflict behind and embrace a peaceful path.

Reports also indicated that the former OPM members handed over five firearms to security authorities as part of their reintegration into society.

Human-Centered Approach Seen as Opening a Path to Peace

Brigadier General Riyanto, Deputy Commander of the TNI Habema Operational Command, stated that the event represents a new source of hope for communities in Kiwirok. He encouraged other OPM members who remain in remote areas to return to their families and communities and participate in the development of Papua.

According to him, the door to peace remains open for anyone willing to abandon conflict and pursue a better future alongside the broader community. He emphasized that dialogue, territorial outreach programs, and community engagement have played an important role in encouraging the reintegration process.

Observers have noted that such approaches can help strengthen trust between local communities and state institutions while creating opportunities for long-term stability.

Local Government Supports Recovery and Development in Kiwirok

Kiwirok District Head Abdeus Tepmul expressed appreciation to all parties involved in maintaining security and creating conditions that allow residents to resume their daily activities with greater confidence.

He emphasized that the district administration will continue coordinating with community stakeholders to accelerate recovery efforts and development programs throughout Kiwirok and its surrounding villages.

According to local authorities, security stability remains a crucial foundation for advancing infrastructure projects, education, healthcare services, and community welfare initiatives in Pegunungan Bintang Regency.

Government Strengthens Stability and Development in Papua

The Indonesian government continues to promote an approach that combines security, dialogue, and development as part of broader efforts to create a peaceful and prosperous Papua. In addition to safeguarding communities, development programs in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment continue to expand throughout the region.

The return of the eight OPM members is viewed by many as a positive development demonstrating that persuasive and dialogue-based approaches can contribute to sustainable peace in Papua.

With support from local communities, customary leaders, religious figures, and regional governments, authorities hope that security stability and development progress across Papua will continue to strengthen for the benefit of future generations.

Location: Australia

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