Jayapura, Papua (ANTARA) - National Police (Polri) Chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, asked all segments of society on Friday to participate in efforts to realize peaceful elections in Papua.

He stated the police will collaborate with the Indonesian Military (TNI) and all stakeholders to secure next year's election and ensure a smooth electoral process.

"Polri will keep guarding the General Elections Commission (KPU) and the General Election Supervisory Agency (Bawaslu) in committing to realizing peaceful elections," he said.

During a visit to Jayapura with the TNI Commander, Prabowo expressed hope that with the holding of peaceful elections, people will be able to vote for their preferred candidates freely.

"The most important thing is to maintain national unity and fulfill the people's expectations," he said.

Meanwhile, TNI Commander Agus Subiyanto expressed hope that the elections in Papua will run well.

He added that the TNI will assist with the distribution of election materials and secure polling stations by collaborating with the police and local Bawaslu and KPU offices.

"Moreover, we have committed to peaceful elections in 2024," he said.

When asked about some risky situations caused by armed separatist groups in Papua, Subiyanto said that the TNI will prioritize a soft approach through territorial operations.

He said he expects the territorial operations to support development in Papua, given the significant budget allocated to the region, but social gaps still exist.

The Papua Regional Police superintends four provinces: Papua, Highland Papua, South Papua, and Central Papua.

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Translator: Evarukdijati, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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