Heed the aspirations of the Papuans

The forming of Central Irian Jaya province on Aug. 23 aimed to improve the prosperity of the people of Indonesia's easternmost island.

However, we have seen the favorable and unfavorable reactions of members of the local community to the division of the province.

It is natural to voice differing opinions in a democracy, but if these differences are marked by violence, democracy turns into anarchy.

We have to seek the root cause of the violence that has rocked Papua in the past three days, and solve it.

Former Irian Jaya governor, Barnabas Suebu said it should be taken into account that Papua's division has been planned in the past 20 years.

However, the aspirations of people at the grass roots should be made as a stepping stone in deciding on the division of the province.

The people should be informed and made to understand the importance of dividing Papua.

We have to make the Papuans aware that the main objective of the move is to give them a more prosperous life.

Thus, before the violence in Central Irian Jaya drags on for days, let us join hands in finding the best possible solution to the problem and end the crisis peacefully.

-- Kompas, Jakarta