Freedom of Expression Suppressed In Papua As Third Peaceful Protester Dies

The death of an activist after she participated in a peaceful protest in Papua, Indonesia, is a tragic reminder of the precarious state of freedom of expression and assembly in the region, Amnesty International said.

Salomina Kalaibin died in hospital on 6 May due to gunshot wounds she received six days earlier at a peaceful commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the handover of Papua to the Indonesian government by the United Nations Temporary Executive Authority.

Two other people were killed and at least seven other protesters were wounded during the event. At least 22 individuals are currently detained for having participated in the peaceful activities. Many allege the security forces were responsible for the violence.

The death of the three political activists is a stark reminder that in Papua, speaking out comes with a high price, said Isabelle Arradon, Asia-Pacific Deputy Director at Amnesty International.

It is imperative that authorities in Indonesia urgently set up a comprehensive and independent investigation into allegations of unnecessary use of firearms by security forces during the protests, make the results available to the public, and bring those responsible to justice.

Failure to take action will send a message that the security forces in Papua operate above the law.

On 30 April, police and soldiers opened fire on a group of people who had peacefully gathered in Aimas District, in the city of Sorong, to organize commemorative activities the following day. Two men, Abner Malagawak and Thomas Blesia, were killed on the spot while Salomina Kalaibin, a woman, died six days later due to gunshot wounds to her stomach and shoulder.

Two others also suffered gunshot wounds during the incident. Police claim the shootings were done in self-defence.

At least six people have since been arrested and charged with rebellion for possession of the Morning Star flags, a symbol of Papuan independence which is prohibited under a 2007 government regulation.

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Freedom Suppressed In Papua As Third Peaceful Protester Dies