Indonesia's TNI Respects Ceasefire Calls in Papua, Boosts Security Presence
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Indonesia's National Armed Forces (TNI) respects calls for a ceasefire in Papua, while emphasizing their constitutional duties.
- The National Commission for Human Rights (Komnas HAM) urged a ceasefire due to escalating conflict and civilian casualties.
- TNI is increasing personnel in Papua to bolster security and protect civilians, coordinating with stakeholders.
Indonesia's National Armed Forces (TNI) has acknowledged calls for a ceasefire in Papua, stating they respect input from various parties on conflict resolution. This comes as the National Commission for Human Rights (Komnas HAM) presses for a cessation of hostilities amid rising tensions and casualties in the region.
TNI spokesperson Nas stated that the military operates according to the constitution and laws, prioritizing national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and public protection. "In every task execution, the TNI always prioritizes professionalism by acting in a measured and proportional manner," Nas said. He emphasized that protecting civilians in Papua is a priority, achieved through coordination and synergy with all stakeholders.
In every task execution, the TNI always prioritizes professionalism by acting in a measured and proportional manner.
To address the escalating situation, TNI is deploying additional personnel to Papua. This measure is based on an evaluation of the security needs on the ground, aiming to strengthen security, maintain stability, and ensure the protection of the local population. The move follows recent incidents, including the shooting of an American pilot and clashes between TNI and the West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Organization (TPNPB-OPM).
Komnas HAM Chairperson Anis Hidayah urged both the government and armed groups to halt the violence, highlighting that civilians are the most vulnerable victims. "Komnas HAM encourages the state to take serious steps to stop all forms of armed conflict, a ceasefire, where civilians have been the most vulnerable victims in every ceasefire that has occurred in Papua," Hidayah stated. She also called for fair law enforcement and reparations for victims' families, urging legal apparatus to work professionally and objectively.
Komnas HAM encourages the state to take serious steps to stop all forms of armed conflict, a ceasefire, where civilians have been the most vulnerable victims in every ceasefire that has occurred in Papua.
Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.