Jakarta (ANTARA) - Greater Indonesia Movement (Gerindra) Party General Chairman Prabowo Subianto has appealed to all parties, including politicians, to assist President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) in convincing the people of Papua.

"Prabowo Subianto urges all parties to unite and forego political differences to help President Joko Widodo convince Papuans that Papua can be better in future within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI)," Subianto's spokesman, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, noted in Jakarta on Friday.

Subianto affirmed that Indonesia, including Papua, should no longer bear witness to injustice and racism in Indonesia, Simanjuntak remarked.

He believes that the government should be prompt in solving the problems in Papua.

The government should give due attention to the problem faced by Papua.

"Prabowo Subianto also called on all parties, including national figures, military, and police, to work together with the people of Papua to create a conducive atmosphere and ensure justice in Papua," Simanjuntak remarked.

Subianto encouraged Papuans to lay their trust in the Indonesian government to realize a better Papua.

President Jokowi had earlier instructed the police and military to take stern measures against those spreading anarchy and racism in Papua. "I am following the case, and I have received information on the latest situation in Papua, especially in Jayapura," Jokowi remarked before a shadow puppet theater in Purworejo, Central Java, late Thursday.

President Jokowi had also urged the public to remain calm and refrain from committing anarchy.

"It would harm all of us if public facilities were to be damaged," he stated.

The government will stay committed to developing Papua, both in terms of physical and human resource development, Jokowi emphasized.

"Let us continue to maintain Papua as a peaceful region, peaceful land. I call on all leaders, customary and religious leaders, as well as Papuan youth to help realize a peaceful and developed Papua," Jokowi stated.

The government has planned to meet Papuan tribal chiefs and awaits an appropriate time.

"We have planned it (the meeting) to be conducted this week, but it is not possible. In the short term, we will hold the meeting with youth leaders, customary as well as religious leaders," Jokowi added.
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Translator: Imam B / Azis Kurmala
Editor: Suharto
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