Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Affirms Government's Commitment to Restoring Security in Wamena
The statement was made by Ribka during a coordination meeting on the development of the security situation, attended by the Governor of Papua Pegunungan, regents, representatives from the military and police, the Papuan People’s Council (MRP), the Customary Institution (LMA), religious leaders, community figures, and other relevant parties in the Jayawijaya Regent’s Meeting Room, Wamena, Papua Pegunungan.
“On behalf of the Minister of Home Affairs, I represent the Central Government in expressing our highest appreciation and gratitude to the people of Wamena and all elements involved in development who have made efforts to provide assistance,” said Ribka in a written statement on Saturday (16/5/2026).
Ribka specifically praised the community of Wamena for their quick response in helping affected residents and maintaining a conducive situation during the conflict.
“First, I would like to thank the people of Wamena who immediately took action and carried out good deeds to help each other and calm everyone down,” said Ribka.
In her remarks, Ribka requested that the provincial government and district governments immediately provide assistance, collect data, and coordinate with the eight districts in Papua Pegunungan to assess the needs for handling and support for affected residents.
According to her, the results of the data collection will be the basis for the government in determining the steps to be taken, whether through the Regional Revenue and Expenditure Budget (APBD) of the district, the APBD of the province, or support from the Central Government.
“Together, we are all responsible. This data collection will be the basis for calculating how much capacity the government has to help affected residents,” explained Ribka.
Ribka affirmed that all community leaders, customary leaders, religious leaders, local governments, and security forces have agreed to end the conflict and focus on the process of restoring the community.
“We have stated that there will be no more conflicts. Now we are focusing on resolving governance issues and restoring the affected community,” said Ribka.
Ribka also assured that the Central Government will continue to support the recovery process until the situation is completely stable.
“I will be here. I have been assigned by the Minister to continue coordinating with the government until the situation recovers,” said Ribka.
In addition to emergency response measures, the Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) will also facilitate the preparation of a Special Regional Regulation (Perdasus) regarding conflict resolution in the eight districts in Papua Pegunungan so that handling has a clear and measurable legal basis.
After the coordination meeting, Ribka, along with the Governor of Papua Pegunungan and local government officials, visited burned houses, hospitals, and evacuation sites to ensure that basic needs are met. The government is also preparing for the gradual return of refugees after the security situation is declared conducive.
“The main goal is for people to return to normal life and be able to carry out their activities as usual. Economic, educational, and health activities should all run well,” concluded Ribka.
(akd/ega)