National Solidarity for Papua Urges Government and Parliament to Designate KKB/OPM as a Terrorist Organization

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JAKARTA – Calls to strengthen the government's response to armed groups in Papua have resurfaced. National Solidarity for Papua is urging the Indonesian government and the House of Representatives (DPR RI) to consider raising the legal status of the Armed Criminal Groups (KKB)/Free Papua Movement (OPM) to that of a terrorist organization.

The call comes amid growing public concern over violence attributed to armed groups in several parts of Papua, including incidents affecting civilian communities. According to the group behind the appeal, Indonesia's response to armed violence needs to be strengthened to provide more effective protection for the people of Papua.

Civilian Protection at the Center of Concern

Armed violence in Papua affects not only security personnel but also civilians living in vulnerable areas.

Reports of attacks, hostage-taking, and disruptions to community activities have increased concerns about the safety of local residents.

For this reason, the call for stronger government action is closely connected to the need to provide greater security and protection for Papuan communities.

Appeal to the Government and Parliament

National Solidarity for Papua is calling on the government and DPR RI to seriously examine the legal status of armed groups responsible for acts of violence in Papua.

Any change in legal designation would require careful consideration based on verified facts, applicable laws, and Indonesia's established legal mechanisms.

Such a decision would also need to take into account its implications for law enforcement, civilian protection, and efforts to safeguard the rights of local communities.

Security and Development Must Go Hand in Hand

Security conditions have a direct impact on development in Papua.

Communities need an environment where they can conduct economic activities, access education and healthcare, and maintain their social lives without fear of violence.

For this reason, stronger security measures should go hand in hand with development and efforts to improve community welfare.

Calls for a Stronger State Presence

The appeal from National Solidarity for Papua also reflects calls for the state to strengthen its presence in areas affected by security disturbances.

State presence is not limited to security personnel. It also includes public services, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and community empowerment.

A comprehensive approach is necessary to prevent civilians from continuing to bear the greatest burden of armed conflict.

Any Action Must Remain Grounded in Law

If the government and Parliament consider changing the legal designation of KKB/OPM, the process must be based on a clear legal framework.

Law-enforcement measures should be carried out professionally and proportionately, with civilian protection remaining a central priority.

A law-based approach is also essential to ensure that government actions remain accountable and do not create additional problems within local communities.

Toward a Safer Papua

The debate over the legal status of armed groups ultimately concerns a broader objective: creating a safer environment and protecting the people of Papua.

The government faces the challenge of ensuring that security policies can address armed violence while also creating conditions conducive to development and everyday community life.

The call from National Solidarity for Papua for the government and Parliament to consider designating KKB/OPM as a terrorist organization reflects demands for stronger civilian protection. Whatever decision is ultimately taken, it should be based on solid legal and factual considerations while ensuring that security, citizens' rights, and sustainable development in Papua remain priorities.

Location: Australia

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