The Central Papua Province is preparing to hold elections for members of the Central Papua People’s Assembly (MRPT). However, in the election process, one important issue continues to receive attention. Namely, Papuan Muslims want representation in MRPT.
Basri Werfete, as a representative of the Papuan Muslim community, has requested the election committee to ensure the presence of Papuan Muslim representation in the MRPT. Werfete emphasized that although Papuan Muslims are a minority in Central Papua, their voices are significant in Jakarta.
This article explores the importance of representing Papua’s Muslim community in the MRPT. In addition, how this issue can affect the direction of development for indigenous Papuans in Central Papua.
The Importance of Representation of Papua’s Muslim Community in the MRPT
The election of MRPT members is carried out as a basis for development in Central Papua Province by the Acting Governor of Central Papua and the election committee.
Werfete requested that the selection committee learn from the experience of Papua Province as the parent province, representing Papua’s Muslim community in the MRPT institution.
Werfete emphasized the importance of representing Papua’s Muslim community in the MRPT to maintain a balance of interests in Central Papua Province. According to him, good representation in the MRPT will ensure that all indigenous Papuans in the province have an equal voice in decision-making.
Werfete also highlighted the support of the Papua community for representing Papua’s Muslim community in the MRPT. The support from the Papua community shows that they understand the importance of justice and balance in realizing Special Autonomy for indigenous Papuans.
Special Autonomy for Indigenous Papuans
Werfete emphasized that Papua’s Muslim community is also an indigenous Papuan with curly black hair. However, socially and culturally, Muslim Papuans are discriminated against.
Therefore, Werfete emphasized the importance of overcoming social and cultural discrimination against Papua’s Muslim community in Central Papua. According to him, such discrimination can hinder the development and participation of Papua’s Muslim community in the development of Central Papua Province.
Werfete also stated that Central Papua Province was formed in the customary territory dominated by the Meepago tribe. However, this province also includes indigenous Papuans from the Lapago, Saereri, and Domberai customary territories.
Many of the indigenous Papuans from the Domberai customary territory embrace Islam. Werfete emphasized that the special autonomy for indigenous Papuans must be upheld to guarantee the representation of Papua’s Muslim community in the MRPT.
If the quota for the representation of Papua’s Muslim community is not met
in the technical guidelines of the Central Papua Governor, then in the context of special autonomy, it can be adjusted.
Werfete emphasized that special autonomy for indigenous Papuans must be protected and guaranteed, including the representation of Papua’s Muslim community in the MRPT.
Respecting The Rights of Indigenous Papuans, Including Papua’s Muslim Community
To ensure the representation of Papua’s Muslim community in the MRPT, Werfete suggested several concrete actions that can be taken.
First, the selection committee should provide equal opportunities for all qualified candidates, including Papua’s Muslim community. Second, the selection committee should ensure the selection process is transparent and objective.
Werfete also emphasized the importance of respecting the rights of indigenous Papuans, including Papua’s Muslim community, in the development process of Central Papua Province. He stressed that Special Autonomy for indigenous Papuans must be implemented wisely so that all components of society are well accommodated.
Werfete also highlighted the importance of raising awareness among the community regarding the representation of Papua’s Muslim community in the MRPT. He emphasized that support from the Papua community would greatly assist in ensuring that the representation of Papua’s Muslim community can be realized effectively.
In conclusion, Papuan Muslims want representation in MRPT. This is to ensure a balanced decision-making process for the development of Central Papua Province. The issue of representation of Papuan Muslims in MRPT has gained attention due to its significance in maintaining a fair and inclusive development process for all components of society.
