Komnas HAM has asked all parties to stop all forms of violence so that efforts to repatriate refugees to their regions can run smoothly.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has expressed support for efforts made by the National Defense Forces (TNI) commander and National Police (Polri) chief to resolve conflicts in Maybrat district, West Papua.

"Komnas HAM supports the commitment of the TNI commander (Admiral Yudo Margono) and the police chief (General Listyo Sigit Prabowo) in efforts to resolve conflicts in Papua region," Komnas HAM chairperson Atnike Nova Sigiro said here on Thursday.

Komnas HAM also supports the ongoing coordination that has involved all related parties in carrying out the comprehensive handling of refugees affected by conflict and paying attention to vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, women, and persons with disabilities.

Both the central and local governments as well as the TNI and Polri must ensure the voluntary return of refugees to their regions by ensuring their security and the fulfillment of their fundamental rights, Sigiro said.

"Komnas HAM has asked all parties to stop all forms of violence so that efforts to repatriate refugees to their regions can run smoothly," she added.

Related news: Army personnel safeguard refugees from armed Papuan terrorists

The human rights body also asked TNI and Polri to take the necessary steps to handle the security situation in Maybrat district while still prioritizing human rights norms and principles.

Komnas HAM urged armed groups and government officials not to commit violence against civilians and encourage peaceful dialogue to stop violence.

Parties who commit acts of violence against civilians must be dealt with firmly based on the law, and Komnas HAM will continue to monitor and encourage efforts to fulfill the rights of refugees, Sigiro said.

According to the Indonesian Army’s (TNI AD’s) website, one of the activities carried out by the infantry battalion task force RK 136/TS at Kumerkek Post has been cleaning public facilities such as schools and houses of residents at Sabah village, East Aifat, Maybrat district, West Papua, on January 9, 2023.

Some of the public buildings and houses there were abandoned by residents after the conflict last year.

Related news: West Papua: TNI urges refugees to return home

Translator: M Zulfikar, Kenzu
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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