Indonesia's amnesty for West Papuans: Nonsense!

West Papua, the western half of the Pacific island of New Guinea, has been a flashpoint for armed conflict since its controversial incorporation into Indonesia in 1963.

On January 21, in an attempt to end one of the longest conflicts in modern history, the Indonesian government under Prabowo Subianto proposed an amnesty for West Papuan political prisoners.

Amnesty is not unconditional release

Is this evidence of Jakarta's good intentions, or is it just part of its communication strategy?

Before discussing further, let's see what amnesty is. In simple terms, it is defined as official pardon for those convicted of political offenses. It is not an unconditional release as some of us may assume.

In the context of political tensions, amnesty is granted once an agreement achieved between the conflicting parties. Therefore, President Prabowo's unilateral offer of amnesty is completely unreasonable!

West Papuans are not begging for mercy

For West Papuan activists, accepting amnesty without prior negotiation is tantamount to giving up their aspirations for independence.

Let's not forget: Self-determination is the right of all nations. Resistance to an oppressive regime is not in any case a crime under international law. Six decades of Indonesian military occupation of West Papua has resulted in the deaths of between 100,000 and 1.5 million West Papuans.

The question now is whether there is a reliable solution to end this massacre?

Peaceful dialogue as a way out

Resolving a long-running conflict requires a clear road map. In this regard, dialogue between Jakarta and West Papua, as proposed by the late Father Neles Tebay, founder of the Papua Peace Network (JDP), appears to be the most realistic path.

Without genuine peace talks and accountability for war criminals, amnesty's offer from Indonesia is a vain effort.

Jakarta would do well to consider negotiation. Despite its military superiority, Indonesia is unlikely to win the war in West Papua. History, as it did during the Vietnam War, has proven that physical strength can be defeated by the power of spirit.