‘Ghost of Suharto’ marks Prabowo’s new phase in West Papua occupation

West Papua Braces for Potential Crackdown under New Indonesian Leadership

Fear hangs heavy in the air in West Papua as Indonesia ushers in a new era under President Prabowo subianto. Many indigenous Papuans worry about a resurgence of the brutal tactics that marked the Suharto dictatorship, a dark chapter in the region’s history.

The Specter of Suharto

Memories are long in West Papua, and the name Suharto evokes chilling memories of human rights abuses and a brutal military occupation. Prabowo,a former general who served under Suharto,has vowed to prioritize national unity and stability. While his supporters hail him as a strong leader, his detractors fear a return to the iron-fisted rule of the past.

Prabowo’s Promises and the Reality on the Ground

Prabowo has attempted to present a more conciliatory image than Suharto, emphasizing economic progress and dialog. However, his past record and the ongoing presence of a heavy military force in West Papua have fueled anxieties.

“We are deeply concerned about Prabowo’s election,” said a West Papuan human rights activist. “His history raises serious questions about his commitment to human rights and self-determination for our people.”

Escalating Military Presence and Repression

Concerns are growing about a potential increase in military operations in West Papua. The Indonesian government has already deployed thousands of troops to the region, ostensibly to combat separatists. However, the presence of the military has often been linked to intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and violence against civilians.

Demographic Shifts, Transmigration, and Environmental Destruction

Adding fuel to the fire is a controversial government policy known as transmigration. This program, which began in the 1960s, involves relocating Indonesian settlers to West Papua, frequently enough displacing indigenous communities and altering the region’s delicate demographic balance. Alongside these demographic shifts, rampant deforestation and resource extraction have devastated West Papua’s environment, further fueling resentment towards the indonesian government.

The Ongoing Struggle for Self-Determination

The people of West Papua have long demanded genuine self-determination. A 1969 referendum, widely seen as flawed and coerced, saw West Papua integrated into Indonesia. Since than, a persistent independence movement has emerged, facing a brutal crackdown from Indonesian authorities.

“We have never accepted the outcome of that sham referendum,” stated a spokesperson for the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP). “We will continue to fight for our right to self-determination, no matter the cost.”

A Provisional Government takes Form

In a bold move, a Provisional Government of West Papua has been established, aimed at uniting the various independence groups and presenting a unified front to the international community.This is a major development, signaling a renewed determination to achieve self-governance.

A Global Call for Justice and Accountability

The fight for West Papua’s future is now drawing international attention. Human rights organizations, activists, and concerned citizens worldwide are raising their voices, calling for an end to human rights abuses and demanding accountability for past atrocities.

The international community faces a crucial choice: engage with Indonesia to ensure respect for human rights and self-determination in West Papua, or stand by as history repeats itself.

Indonesia’s West Papua: A New Era of Occupation and Ecocide?

Benny Wenda, the exiled interim president of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), is sounding the alarm. He believes that Indonesia’s new president, Prabowo Subianto, is steering the region towards a chilling new era of oppression and environmental destruction.

The Shadow of Suharto

Wenda’s fears are rooted in Prabowo’s military past.Serving as a general between 1970 and 1998, primarily within the special forces unit Kopassus, Prabowo has been accused of committing atrocities in both West Papua and East Timor. Wenda directly accuses Prabowo, stating “he can never clean the blood from his hands for his crimes as a general in West Papua and East Timor,” and further alleges that Prabowo is “creating a new regime of brutality” in Indonesia.

These concerns are amplified by reports of escalating violence and displacement in West Papua. Thousands of civilians have been forced to flee their homes, driven into the wilderness by Indonesian soldiers. The entire regency of Oksop has been emptied, with over 1,200 people displaced as a crackdown intensified in Nduga regency in 2018.

A PR Campaign or a Prelude to Brutality?

Wenda urges the international community not to be deceived by what he sees as Prabowo’s carefully crafted public relations campaign.He points to the president’s international tour, vague environmental pledges, and the amnesty granted to various prisoners, including 18 West Papuans and remnants of the Bali Nine, as mere attempts to gain international legitimacy.

Echoes of a Dark Past

The comparison to Suharto, Indonesia’s former dictator, is not made lightly. Suharto’s 30-year reign was marked by iron-fisted control. Before officially taking power in 1967, Suharto orchestrated the mass murder of up to one million communists. He also rigged the 1969 referendum on

self-determination for West Papua, ensuring its failure, and later invaded East Timor in 1975.

Wenda draws a direct line between Suharto’s tactics and Prabowo’s actions, citing “mass displacement, increased militarization,” and “increased deforestation” in West Papua as evidence of a disturbing resurgence of brutality.

“Foreign governments should not be fooled by Prabowo’s PR campaign.” Image: SCL montage

The situation in West Papua remains perilous. The echoes of Suharto’s brutal regime resonate in the actions of Prabowo, casting a dark shadow over the region’s future.

Indonesia’s New President Sparks Fears of Escalating Repression in West papua

The election of Prabowo Subianto as Indonesia’s new president has ignited fears among West Papuans of an intensification of military presence and human rights abuses in the restive region. Benny Wenda, the exiled leader of the united Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), has sounded the alarm, condemning Prabowo’s policies as indicative of a new and more dangerous phase of the Indonesian occupation.

Oksop displaced villagers seeking refuge in ⁢West Papua. (image: ULMWP)

Military Buildup and the Threat of Martial Law

Wenda’s anxieties stem from Prabowo’s plans to establish separate military commands in each of West Papua’s newly created provinces.Coupled with Indonesia’s ongoing division of the region into administrative zones, this move is seen as a tactic to justify a heavier military presence.

“By establishing new administrative divisions, indonesia creates the pretext for new military posts and checkpoints,” Wenda explains. “The result is the deployment of thousands more soldiers, curfews, arbitrary arrests and human rights abuses. West Papua is under martial law.”

Demographic Shifts and the Legacy of Transmigration

Adding fuel to the fire, prabowo has revived the controversial transmigration program, which relocates Indonesians to West Papua. This program, initiated during the Suharto era, has dramatically altered the region’s demographics, diluting the indigenous population. Wenda points to the stark shift in population figures: in 1971, West Papuans made up 96 percent of the population.By 2015, due to transmigration, their share had plummeted to just 49 percent.
“The occupation was entering a new phase,” Wenda stated in 2015, highlighting the program’s impact.

Deforestation and the Destruction of West Papua’s Environment

Prabowo’s environmental policies are raising even further alarm bells, especially his endorsement of a massive deforestation project in Merauke district, South Papua province. Launched in mid-2024, the project aims to convert 2 million hectares of forest, wetlands, and grasslands into sugarcane plantations.

Wenda condemns the project as “ecocide on a formidable scale,” noting it involves the destruction of protected areas despite promises to the contrary. The project is a joint venture involving five consortiums,including both Indonesian and foreign companies. This deforestation initiative echoes a similar program launched in Merauke in 2011 under former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

Calls for Genuine Self-Determination Echo Loudly in West Papua

Calls for Genuine Self-Determination Echo Loudly in West Papua

The pursuit of independence in West Papua persists, fueled by a history marred by colonialism and exploitation.The 1962 New York Agreement, which saw the Netherlands cede control of West Papua to Indonesia, promised a path towards self-determination through a referendum in 1969 – the act of Free Choice. Though, this process was deeply flawed, betraying the West Papuan people’s right to a genuine voice.

The Shameful Legacy of a flawed Referendum

The 1969 referendum,now widely condemned as the “Act of no Choice,” involved a paltry 1026 handpicked West Papuans,coerced and intimidated into producing a result favorable to Indonesia. This sham election solidified Indonesia’s grip on the region,silencing the authentic aspirations of the indigenous population.

Indonesian military forces on patrol in the Oksop regency of West Papua. Image: ULMWP

A People’s Petition and the Quest for a New Referendum

Benny Wenda, the exiled leader of the West Papuan independence movement, presented The People’s Petition to the UN Human Rights High Commissioner in January 2019. This petition,bearing the signatures of 1.8 million west Papuans – representing 70 percent of the indigenous population – demands a new, internationally supervised referendum on self-determination, affording the people a genuine say in their future.

Ongoing Struggles for Justice and Recognition

Wenda has also drawn attention to the ongoing injustice faced by the West Papuan people, who experience stark economic disparities and are subject to a repressive military presence. He accuses Indonesia of implementing a destructive transmigration program, displacing indigenous communities and exploiting West Papua’s natural resources while leaving the region impoverished.

The Formation of a Provisional Government: A Step Towards Self-Governance

In a bold assertion of self-determination, Wenda announced the formation of the united Liberation Movement for west Papua (ULMWP), a provisional government dedicated to achieving their aspirations for independence.

West Papua’s struggle for Self-Determination Intensifies Amidst Indonesian Expansion

The fight for West Papuan independence is reaching a critical juncture. As Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto revives controversial transmigration programs and oversees massive deforestation projects, the global call for West Papuan self-determination is growing louder.

The Rise of a Provisional Government

In December 2020, a significant development emerged in the struggle for West Papuan autonomy. A provisional government was established, complete with departmental structures and appointed officials operating within the Melanesian province. Prominent West Papuan activist Benny Wenda was named president of this burgeoning government,signaling the unwavering commitment of the West Papuan people to chart their own course.

Renewed Tensions and Environmental Devastation

The recommencement of transmigration – the relocation of indonesian citizens to West Papua – and the alarming scale of deforestation in Merauke, especially in 2025, have heightened tensions. These developments are perceived as direct threats to West Papuan culture, land rights, and self-determination. A tweet from Sydney Criminal lawyers in January 2025 highlighted the gravity of the situation: “Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto has recommenced transmigration into West Papua, while embarking on the world’s largest deforestation project. #sydneycriminallawyers #indonesian #westpapua”

“Every element of West Papua is being systematically destroyed: our land,our people,our Melanesian cultural identity,” Wenda declared in November 2025,emphasizing the devastating impact of these policies.

Wenda pointed to a disturbing pattern, stating in November 2024 that “It is indeed not a coincidence that Prabowo [Indonesia’s Defense Minister] has announced a new transmigration program concurrently as their ecocidal deforestation regime intensifies. These twin agendas represent the two sides of Indonesian colonialism in West Papua: exploitation and settlement.” He further accused the Indonesian government of prioritizing resource extraction over the well-being of the West Papuan people, stating, “Jakarta is only interested in West Papuan land and resources. While Indonesia profits from West Papuan palm oil, gold, and natural gas, the West Papuan provinces remain the poorest in the Southeast Asian nation.”

The struggle for self-determination in West Papua continues,fueled by a deep desire for justice,autonomy,and a future defined by the West Papuan people themselves.

West Papua: A Plea for International Solidarity in the Face of Exploitation

The Indonesian province of West Papua, rich in natural resources but mired in poverty and political unrest, stands as a stark example of a region where resource extraction trumps human rights and environmental sustainability.

Benny Wenda, a prominent West Papuan independence leader and chair of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), paints a grim picture. He describes a system that systematically undermines the rights and well-being of the indigenous Papuan population, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and dispossession.

A Global Call for Justice

As the west Papuan struggle for self-determination intensifies, it has drawn increasing global attention. Human rights organizations, environmental groups, and indigenous rights advocates have raised concerns about the Indonesian government’s actions, calling for international intervention to address the escalating crisis.

“We are not seeking violence or conflict; we are seeking justice, freedom, and the right to determine our own destiny,” Wenda asserts, highlighting the peaceful aspirations of the West Papuan people.

The Urgency of International Action

The international community has a crucial role to play in addressing the situation in West Papua. Advocacy groups urge governments and international organizations to pressure Indonesia to end its repressive policies and engage in meaningful dialogue with West Papuan leaders.

Proposed measures include targeted sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and robust support for human rights monitoring. These actions are seen as essential to hold Indonesia accountable for its actions and pave the way for a just and peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Protecting the Environment and Cultural Heritage

Beyond the human rights concerns, environmental organizations express alarm about the ecological impact of Indonesia’s policies in West Papua. Large-scale deforestation and land conversion projects not only threaten the region’s rich biodiversity but also contribute to global climate change.

“The destruction of West Papua’s forests is not just a local issue; it is indeed a global one,” Wenda emphasizes, calling on the international community to protect these vital ecosystems and the indigenous communities who depend on them.

A Call for Global Solidarity

The struggle for justice in West Papua is a call for international solidarity.It is indeed a fight against the exploitation of indigenous populations and the plundering of natural resources. As the world watches, it is time for the international community to act, ensuring that the voices of the West Papuan people are heard and their fundamental rights are respected.

The Unwavering Spirit of West Papua: A Fight for freedom

The struggle for West Papuan independence is a powerful testament to the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity. For decades, the indigenous people of West Papua have endured oppression and denied self-determination, yearning for a future where they can chart their own destiny.

A History of Disenfranchisement

West Papua’s journey towards self-governance began in the late 1800s under Dutch colonial rule. As the Netherlands prepared for withdrawal in the 1950s, the seeds of West Papuan independence were sown. On December 1st, 1961, a pivotal moment arrived: West papuans convened a congress to discuss their aspiration for independence, raising the Morning Star flag—a potent symbol of their desire for freedom—for the first time.

A Call for Global Solidarity

Today,prominent West Papuan leaders like Benny Wenda,Chair of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP),continue to champion the cause on the international stage. Wenda emphasizes that the fight “we are not alone in this struggle,” he affirms.”We have the support of people around the world who believe in justice and the right of all peoples to determine their own future.”

A Plea for Justice and Self-Determination

The situation in West Papua remains critical, marked by ongoing human rights concerns and a lack of autonomy. The international community is increasingly urged to recognize the plight of the west Papuan people and take concrete steps to amplify their voices.

As images of displaced villagers seeking refuge in the Oksop regency surface alongside pictures of Indonesian military patrols in the region, the urgency for action becomes even more apparent. The ULMWP,through its advocacy,demands an end to oppression and the realization of West Papuans’ fundamental right to self-determination.

Towards a Brighter Future

The fight for West Papuan independence is a plea for justice,a testament to the enduring spirit of a people steadfast to shape their own destiny. The world watches as the struggle unfolds, hoping for a future where the Morning Star flag flies high, symbolizing not just a nation’s aspiration but also the triumph of the human spirit over adversity.

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1. Oksop displaced villagers seeking refuge in West Papua. image: ULMWP
2. Indonesian military forces on patrol in the Oksop regency of the West Papua region. image: ULMWP

What is the legal basis for West papua’s claim to self-determination, and how does it relate to the “Act of Free Choice”?

rnational community to recognize the interconnectedness of environmental degradation and human rights abuses. He stresses that protecting West Papua’s forests is not only vital for the survival of its indigenous communities but also for the global fight against climate change.

The Role of Global Solidarity

the plight of West Papua has increasingly become a rallying point for global solidarity movements. Activists, academics, and policymakers worldwide are amplifying the voices of West Papuans, urging governments and international bodies to take decisive action. Social media campaigns,petitions,and grassroots advocacy have brought the issue to the forefront of global consciousness.

Wenda and other West Papuan leaders have called for a united front, emphasizing that the struggle for self-determination is not just a regional issue but a global one. “The world must stand with West Papua,” Wenda declared. “our fight is for justice, for the habitat, and for the right of all peoples to determine their own future.”

The Path Forward: Dialogue and Accountability

For any meaningful resolution to the crisis in West Papua,dialogue and accountability are essential. West Papuan leaders have repeatedly called for an internationally mediated dialogue with the Indonesian government to address past grievances and chart a path toward self-determination. Such a process would require transparency,inclusivity,and a genuine commitment to addressing the root causes of the conflict.

International pressure is seen as a critical tool to compel Indonesia to engage in such dialogue. Advocacy groups have urged the United Nations, the Pacific Islands Forum, and other international bodies to take a more active role in facilitating negotiations and ensuring that the voices of West Papuans are heard.

A call to Action

The situation in West Papua is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by indigenous communities worldwide. It underscores the urgent need for global solidarity,environmental stewardship,and a commitment to justice and human rights. As the world grapples with the dual crises of climate change and social inequality, the fight for West Papua’s self-determination serves as a powerful call to action.

“We will not be silenced,” Wenda asserts. “Our land, our culture, and our future are worth fighting for. We call on the world to stand with us in this struggle for justice and freedom.”

The international community must heed this call, recognizing that the fate of West Papua is not just a regional issue but a global one. By standing in solidarity with the West Papuan people, the world can definitely help pave the way for a future defined by justice, sustainability, and self-determination.