PAPUA — The spokesperson for the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB), Sebby Sambom, emphasized that the current momentum of international warfare must be utilized to declare Papua's independence. Sebby also launched sharp criticism against the slowness of Papuan diplomatic movements, which he described as "sterile."
In his statement, Sebby Sambom expressed his lack of confidence in the negotiation process with the central government in Jakarta. He assessed that the character of the current leadership is difficult to penetrate through ordinary diplomatic channels.
"To be honest, I don't know about other tribes, but these Javanese are 'Ancient Javanese'; they are the ones leading this country. So, the hope is too thin," Sebby stated.
He also vented his disappointment toward fighters abroad, whom he considers to have been spreading empty promises since the 70s. "These diplomats all seem sterile, unable to give birth to a child. I am bored. From the time I was little until my current age, the stories of America or the UN granting independence (have never happened). We want real action; only then can it be recognized."
Total Revolution
Sebby Sambom instead gave firm instructions to create a crisis in the land of Papua to shake the comfort of those who are still reluctant to fight. He emphasized that independence will not come simply by waiting, but by creating an emergency situation.
"A total revolution must be created so that those who eat, drink, and sleep with their wives comfortably every day—we will see what happens when we create a crisis. We create the crisis; we don't just wait if we want to be free. There is no compromise," he asserted.
He used specific terms to describe a situation where everyone would be forced to flee to the forest and involve themselves in the struggle without exception.
Ultimatum
The TPNPB's hardline stance is also directed at Indonesian newcomers or immigrants. Sebby openly requested those who do not support the struggle to leave immediately, though he provided a guarantee for those willing to side with Papuan independence.
"This illegal occupation must be ended. We do not allow those Indonesian immigrants to stay; please leave West Papua. But if you want to join the struggle, please do. Entrepreneurs or civil servants, support Papua's independence so you can obtain West Papuan citizenship rights later," he continued.
Interestingly, Sebby also highlighted the economic role of ethnic Chinese in Pacific regions such as Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands as an example to be followed. He reminded the Papuan people not to harbor envy or anti-Chinese sentiments, which he claimed occur in Java.
"Do not be envious of the Chinese. They are the backbone of the world economy. If there were no Chinese, where would you buy rice? In Pacific countries, they are respected because they revitalize the economy. We must follow that example," Sebby explained, while comparing social conditions in Java—which he described as full of beggars and street buskers—as a portrait of failure that must not happen in Papua.
Closing his statement, Sebby Sambom reminded that although Papuans are known for having great love, continuous pressure from the Indonesian government will trigger drastic retaliatory actions.
"We are the kindest people in the world; our love is beyond measure. But human patience has its limits. If Indonesia goes too far, well, we will cast them away! That is correct," he concluded. ***
