West Papua’s Fight for Freedom: Betrayed by Leaders, Powered by the People

West Papua’s Fight for Freedom: Betrayed by Leaders, Powered by the People

Since the birth of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) in 2014, the West Papuan struggle for independence has sought strength in Melanesian solidarity. The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) was founded to unite Melanesian peoples, to fight for their rights and freedom — including the sacred Right to Self-Determination for territories like West Papua.

ULMWP’s bid to join MSG as a full member is not just political maneuvering; it is a vital step to break the chains of oppression. Full membership means a stronger voice on the world stage — from the Pacific Islands to Africa, the Caribbean, and Europe. It would expose and dismantle Indonesia’s criminalization of the Papuan struggle for freedom.

Yet, despite joining MSG as an observer since 2016, ULMWP remains sidelined. Meanwhile, Indonesia, the occupying force, enjoys associate membership — a bitter insult to justice. The recent MSG Summit ended in bitter disappointment: no full membership for ULMWP, only promises of a “work plan” to review the application. The Melanesian prime ministers cynically passed the issue to the Pacific Islands Forum, leaving West Papua’s fate dangling in limbo.

This betrayal by Melanesian leaders ignites fierce anger among West Papuan freedom fighters and activists. Social media erupted with cries of outrage: “Melanesian leaders prefer Indonesia to perpetuate colonialism rather than save the people of West Papua,” declared Ambrosius Mulait. This was no silent submission — thousands marched, protested, and demanded justice, even as dozens were arrested and silenced.

Struggle is never without sacrifice. Prison bars and bloodshed have marked West Papua’s journey. But nothing stings more than betrayal by those who claim to defend you. It is a profound shame that leaders have failed the people who trusted them.

The truth is clear: the fate of West Papua is not in the hands of politicians. It belongs to the people — to all those who cherish justice and human dignity, regardless of ethnicity or geography.

Remember Filep Karma, the Papuan Nelson Mandela, who died last year. When asked who counts as a Papuan, he said it was anyone who fights for Papuan independence. Filep never sought glory or fame. He humbly asked that his name be forgotten if freedom ever came. His life is a call to all fighters: set aside personal ambition. Be humble. Be useful. Be relentless.

West Papua’s fight is far from over. It will be long. It will be painful. But it will not be silenced.