Hundreds took to the streets of Papua New Guinea’s capital, Port Moresby, this morning to march in solidarity as the push for West Papua freedom gains momentum. Organised by the National Capital District Governor, Powes Parkop, the march was to create awareness on the 57 year conflict as well as to draw international attention on West Papua’s struggle for independence and human rights abuses.
“The Government will have its time, but we won’t wait for the Government. Today we have to start mobilising, Port Moresby is starting now, but I want to call on the people of this nation, West Papua is where it is now because PNG has been silent, we have feared Indonesia for 57 years. Now is the time to stand up,” Parkop said.
The march started from the Jack Pidik Park at 5Mile in Port Moresby and ended at the Sir John Guise stadium were speeches were made by representatives of the church, including West Papua representatives and the Oro Governor, Gary Juffa.
“The region is not free. We are not free when our brothers and sisters are dying on the other side,” Governor Juffa said.
Chairman of the Free Papua Movement, Jeffery Bomanak, was also present highlighting the importance of unity during this time as the push for self-determination is gaining momentum and support from the international community.
“We must stand united. West Papua is calling on her Melanesian brothers to stand with us as the fight for independence is growing and we can feel it,” Bomanak said.
By Stanley Ove Jr – EMTV News, Port Moresby
