Today, on the 58th anniversary of Indonesia’s colonisation of West Papua, we take another historic step towards reclaiming our sovereignty. The ULMWP Provisional Government is forming a full cabinet with 12 departments to protect our people, our environment and our way of life.
The new cabinet and government departments will prioritise our natural environment and defend the rights of all living beings in West Papua. Where the Indonesian occupation brings terrorism, deforestation and murder, we will bring the world’s first Green State, a beacon for environmental defenders across the planet.
Our government departments will cover all aspects of West Papuan life on the ground, from political affairs to justice, the environment to women. Our diplomatic missions around the world will engage with any government or agency willing to support our struggle for self-determination.
We are equals to the Indonesian government, sitting in international fora together. We are ready to work with the international community to hold a peaceful referendum on independence and realise our vision for a free and liberated West Papua.
On this day, 58 years ago, a nightmare for my people began. So many of us have lost our lives and our dignity. Today we mark another milestone in the long struggle to rectify this historic injustice and restore my people to their rightful place in the community of nations.
Benny Wenda
Interim President
ULMWP Provisional Government
Find full press release here.
