The plight of people from West Papua was brought to the fore today in Parliament, with Rabaul MP Allan Marat questioning the Foreign Affairs to clarify the PNG Government’s stance on recent developments in West Papua.
“What is our national governments response to the current flare up in West Papua in terms of the overall aim of the political freedom of our Melanesian West Papuan brothers, what is Papua New Guinea’s current policy ?”
The Minister for Foreign Affairs Soroi Eoe saying it would be proper for this to be addressed through the Human Rights Commission by the United Nations.
“Our responsibility first is to our own people as to how we address this issue also determines our future in this region as well”
Marat’s questions, supported by Oro Governor Gary Juffa. who queried the Foreign Affairs department’s contingency plans in relation to a possible spill over effect from the current uprising.
“what is the position of his ministry and the government in regards to this”
In the last week, nine West Papuans have been killed by Indonesian Military forces, as protests have flared in various cities.
The call for clarity in PNG’s parliament comes amidst increasing tensions in West Papua, as calls for independence from Indonesia increase.
By Meriba Tulo, EMTV News, Port Moresby
