The United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) President Benny Wenda has welcomed the launch of the West Papua People’s Liberation Front (GR-PWP), a new movement aimed at furthering the agenda for West Papuan independence.
“On behalf of the ULMWP, I welcome the launch of the West Papua People’s Liberation Front
“The GR-PWP is a new popular movement formed to execute the national agenda of the ULMWP,” he said in a statement.
Wenda outlined the core objectives of the GR-PWP which includes a visit to West Papua by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, ULMWP’s full membership in the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) and an internationally-supervised self-determination referendum.
“Our roadmap is clear,” Wenda stressed.
“We will not stray in this or that direction, but remain totally focused on our end goal of independence. By pursuing this threefold agenda, we are rebuilding the sovereignty that was stolen from us in 1962.”
He emphasised the inclusive nature of the GR-PWP, inviting various groups to participate, including political activists, student groups, religious organisations, Indonesian solidarity groups, the Alliance of Papuan Students, and the KNPB.
“The Liberation Front is not factional but will carry out the national agenda for self-determination,” he said.
“It will deepen the ULMWP’s presence on the ground, supporting the cabinet, constitution, governing structure, and Green State Vision we have already put in place.”
According to Wenda, the GR-PWP will operate with a decentralised structure across West Papua’s seven customary regions.
“Jayapura will not dictate decisions to the coasts or islands: all regions will have an equal voice in the movement,” he explained. Stressing the importance of unity, he added, “Our liberation movement will only succeed when West Papuans from all regions, from all tribal groups and political factions, unite.”
Wenda also extended an invitation to international supporters.
“I invite all our solidarity groups and supporters around the world to unite behind this new organisation. By standing behind our agenda, you stand behind our freedom struggle,” he said.
