TOLIKARA – Sad news blankets the land of Papua. The Toly Regional Management Body of the West Papua National Committee (BPWT-KNPB) officially announced national mourning over the passing of one of their best young cadres and fighters, Yalimera Kogoya.

​The active member of KNPB Toly Region who served in the Diplomacy Commission breathed his last breath at the age of 26 years.

​The late Yalimera Kogoya, who had joined and dedicated himself to various organizational activities and the struggle of the Papuan people since 2023, was reported to have died on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

​Based on official statements, the late individual began experiencing a decline in health conditions since September 2025. Although he had undergone medical treatment at the Tolikara Hospital, his health condition continued to worsen until he finally died at the KNPB Toly Region Office, Gaza Strip Kelagawi, Karubaga, Tolikara Regency, which currently also functions as the funeral home.

​The departure of this young activist leaves deep sadness for the entire big family of central KNPB, 33 KNPB Regions, KNPB Consulates of Indonesia and Timor Leste, as well as the people of Papua.

​However, behind this deep sense of loss, the KNPB also conveyed sharp criticism toward the bleak portrait of health services in the region. The death of Yalimera is considered a reflection of a larger systemic problem regarding medical access in Papua.

​In his statement, the General Secretary of KNPB Toly Region, Lanny Wanimbo, emphasized that the high death rate of civilians and activists in Papua is closely related to the fragility of local health facilities. He regretted the hospital bureaucracy which is considered rigid and often sacrifices the lives of patients.

​"We assess that the increasing death rate of civilians and activists in Papua is inseparable from the limitations of health facilities, lack of medical services, as well as the hospital service system that prioritizes administration over human safety. This condition causes many Papuans to not get maximum medical help," said Lanny Wanimbo.

​Responding to this increasingly concerning humanitarian situation, this moment of grief was also used as a basis for the KNPB to urge the government to pay attention to the safety of citizens.

​Lanny stated that Papua currently requires serious handling from various parties, including international involvement to fix this crucial sector.

​"Through this moment of grief, we again hope that the State of Indonesia opens international humanitarian access for the people of Papua, especially in the health field, because the humanitarian situation in Papua at this time is very concerning and requires serious attention," added Lanny.

​Although one of its young movers has passed away, the KNPB Toly Region believes that the spirit and flame of struggle left by Yalimera Kogoya will not just go out.

​KNPB is optimistic that the relay of the late individual's struggle will continue to be revived and continued by the next generation of young Papuans.

​KNPB also conveyed profound final respects to accompany the departure of the activist toward his final resting place. ***