Mega apologizes to Papuans

Mega apologizes to Papuans

JAKARTA: President Megawati Soekarnoputri apologized to all
the Papuan people for not being able to attend Christmas
celebrations in Jayapura as had been initially scheduled on Dec.
22.

In a letter sent to Governor Jaap Salossa, the President said
that her heart was with the Papuan people and she would try to
find the right time to visit the country's easternmost province
in the near future.

She further called on the public to maintain peace as it also
became the theme of this year's Christmas celebrations across the
country.

"Living in peace is the desire of all humankind, but what we
saw recently really disturbed us," Megawati said in her letter.

On special autonomy for Papua, the President contended that if
it were implemented seriously then it could improve the welfare
of the people. --Antara