HIPMI Papua New Autonomous Regions: We Are Not Asking for Privileges, but Equal Rights

Four Regional Management Boards (BPD) of HIPMI from the New Autonomous Regions (DOB) of Tanah Papua have voiced objections regarding the determination of voter rights ahead of the HIPMI National Congress (Munas). They assess the decision could potentially reduce the participation space of new regions in the national forum, even though all required organisational obligations have been fulfilled. As regions newly formed following expansion, BPD HIPMI of South Papua, Central Papua, Highlands Papua, and Southwest Papua acknowledged facing different challenges compared to other regions. However, within a relatively short time since their inauguration, they stated they have carried out various mandatory organisational agendas, met membership targets, and participated in national activities organised by the BPP HIPMI. The Chairman of BPD HIPMI South Papua, Nickson Pampang, stressed that the objection raised is not an attempt to seek special treatment for new autonomous regions, but rather a fight for the principle of equal rights within the organisation. “Papua is present not to ask for special treatment. We are present as a legitimate part of the organisation and hope to be treated equally. What we are fighting for is the same rights based on the same rules,” said Nickson Pampang. According to the Chairman of BPD HIPMI Southwest Papua, Rob Rafael Kardinal, the DOB BPD HIPMI have strived to fulfil all required organisational obligations despite having a relatively short time since formation. “We understand our position as a new region. Therefore, we worked hard to fulfil all organisational obligations, from institutional agendas, membership, to participation in national activities. That commitment should also receive equal recognition,” said Rob. The Chairman of BPD HIPMI Highlands Papua, Anthonius Wetipo, added that the spirit of forming new autonomous regions is essentially to broaden participation and strengthen representation in various decision-making forums. “New regions were formed so that participation becomes wider, not narrower. Therefore, the determination of representation rights must consider objective facts and not differentiate between old regions and those resulting from expansion,” said Anthonius. The Chairman of BPD HIPMI Central Papua, Yoti Gire, stated that the BPD HIPMI DOB Tanah Papua hope this issue can be resolved through a fair and transparent organisational mechanism. According to Rob, equality of treatment for all regions will be an important foundation for the future of the organisation.