The publication of deeply disturbing images showing the aftermath of an Indonesian military ’sweeping operation’ in the village of Bolkame, close to the West Papuan highland town of Wamena, should serve as a warning to the international community of Indonesia’s intent to continue their drive to wipe out the Papuan population.
In the latest episode, 25 houses were burnt to the ground, Indonesian troops opened gunfire on elderly, precious livestock were killed, and women raped in front of their children. Those that fled remain in hiding in the jungle without so much as a blanket to keep warm.
Little wonder the Indonesian authorities were so keen to expel the International Committee of the Red Cross recently. Worrying times indeed. Let us hope that the UN are watching developments.
The Papuan people have suffered for too long under Indonesian occupation. On the tenth anniversary of East Timor, it’s time that the international community helped this other troubled region. Lack of action will have devastating consequences for humanity. The West Papuan people should be granted the right they have always been denied – self determination. Then they can finally be free to democratically choose their own future. No one can deny them that right.
