Heed the aspirations of the Papuans

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