Source of picture : Radar SKBM
The peaceful demonstration which took place in front of the Deiyai Regent’s Office on Wednesday 28 August 2019 in regard to the rejection of racism and student intimidation in a number of cities in Indonesia was infiltrated by Free Papuan activists.
The demonstration which began around 10 am was initially only attended by around 100 people led by Stevanus Pigai, Chairperson of KNPB as general coordinator and Yulianus Degey as field coordinator. The action was carried out peacefully by carrying a banner on behalf of the Anti-Racism People’s Front group (FRAR) which read “People’s Anti-Racism Front Condemns Violently Racism, the Right to Determine Self-Destiny Democratic Solutions for the People of West Papua.” This group was formed in relation with issues of racism and intimidation against Papuan students in the cities of Malang, Surabaya and Semarang.
Unfortunately, an hour later the development of the situation drastically transformed when hundreds of masses appeared while shouting the words “Free Papua” and carrying the Morning Star flag. The sudden arrival of the masses were equipped with arrows, machetes and stones. The addition of the masses made the number of demonstrators reach two thousand people.
Furthermore, the demonstration which was initially peaceful turned into brutal acts and blindly carried out attacks, by throwing stones and arrows at the security forces. The masses even destroyed the Regent’s Office and seized a number of weapons from the security forces.
This uncontrolled mass action resulted in the loss of life from the authorities, namely one Indonesian Armed Forces member died from wounds caused by arrows, machete and stone. While five other security personnel from Indonesian Armed Forces and Police were injured. This anarchist act also caused two civilians died from arrow wounds and gunshot wounds.
In the afternoon, Indonesian security forces were able to control the situation and successfully repulsed the protesters. After the masses dispersed, all the injured were evacuated to Paniai Hospital for medical assistance while the victims who died were evacuated to the city of Nabire.
The Coordinating Minister for Politics, Law and Security, Wiranto, deplored the brutal demonstration that caused the loss of life. Wiranto mentioned, “We regret and we must avoid such a brutal demonstration that took place causing casualties.” Wiranto stressed that the government has privided mechanism for the people to express and demonstrate their aspirations in accordance with the rules of law. There must be no anarchist action to take casualties. “Actually, if the demonstration is done well, in accordance with the rules of law, I don’t think we need to worry,” he said.
Tell the Truths deplore the brutal demonstrations, and strive towards an objective retelling of the truth. The Indonesian government has been persevering to uphold democracy. There is space to conduct demonstrations and express personal or group aspirations as long as they are carried out peacefully. These rallies carried out brutally will not produce any profits except the loss and disintegration of the nation.
The media are expected to appear as a neutral and objective tool in viewing this problem. The media is not a bonfire for the people who are increasingly dividing the integrity of Indonesia.
