Jakarta, Jubi – Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Tedjo Edhy Purdijatno said the government is adopting a persuasive approach to deal with Free Papua Movement (OPM).
“The government put forward a persuasive approach within the framework of development and welfare in order to deal with OPM, “said Tedjo, during a discussion entitled “Vote for Papua” in Jakarta on last week.
He said Indonesian authorities in Papua were actually exploring diplomatic efforts with groups who are seeking independence for Papua.
“There are representative of Kemenkopolhukam and the Intelligence Agency State in Papua,” he said.
In addition, President Joko Widodo has also urged for fighters hiding in the jungle and mountains in Papua to come out and join the government.
“The president always encourages them to jointly develop Papua. However, it can not be forced upon them,” he said.
The government will always give space to Papuans who want to come and express their opinions, he said.
He said government welfare programs include national granary in Merauke, infrastructure, road construction, and plans to build a cement plant in Papua.
Discussion on “Vote for Papua” was also attended by the Minister of Transportation Indonesia 2009-2011 period, Freddy Numberi and Indonesian Ambassador for the Philippines and former Military Commander VII / Trikora or now known as the Military Command XVII / Cendrawasih Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Johny Lumintang. (*/Tina)
