Ahead of KNPB Action in Papua, Public Urged to Maintain Security

Ahead of a planned action announced by the West Papua National Committee (KNPB) to commemorate the Act of Free Choice (Pepera) from 3 to 15 August 2026, community leaders in Tanah Papua have urged the public to maintain security, order, and unity. The appeal was made to ensure the situation remains conducive amid the 57th anniversary of Pepera, which also falls close to the series of commemorations for the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia. Yanto Eluay, General Chairman of the Presidium of the Sons and Daughters of Pepera Fighters (P5) Papua and son of Pepera figure Theys Hio Eluay, called on the public, particularly residents of Jayapura City and surrounding areas, to carry on with their activities as usual and not be easily influenced by information or calls that could potentially disrupt public security and order. According to Yanto Eluay, every citizen has the right to express opinions in accordance with the law. However, he expressed hope that all parties would prioritise peaceful means and consider the impact on the wider community. ‘We urge the public to maintain brotherhood, respect differences of opinion, and not be easily provoked by information whose truth is unclear. Let us work together to maintain a safe and conducive situation for the benefit of the entire community, and Pepera is final,’ he said on Monday, 3 August 2026. He noted that actions with the potential to disrupt traffic flow or public activities could directly affect people’s livelihoods, especially traders, small business owners, transport drivers, daily wage workers, and other economic sectors that depend on daily activities. Yanto Eluay also invited all elements of society to continue strengthening the spirit of mutual cooperation, tolerance, and mutual respect as the main capital for maintaining security stability and supporting development in Papua. ‘We must direct our energy and thoughts towards working and improving the economy of the Papuan people. Do not carry out activities that could disrupt public activities or harm many people,’ he said. He also urged the public, particularly in the Tabi, Sentani, and Jayapura City areas, not to participate in activities deemed potentially disruptive to public activities or the wheels of the economy.