Jayapura, Jubi – The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has called on the police to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the murder of Michelle Kurisi Ndoga in Lanny Jaya Regency, Mountainous Papua Province.
Michelle Kurisi Ndoga was allegedly killed by the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB). Her death gained public attention due to the circulation of a video showing her being interrogated.
Uli Parulian Sihombing, Komnas HAM’s coordinator of the Human Rights Enforcement Sub-Commission said on Friday, September 1, 2023, that violence against anyone, including the murder of Michelle Kurisi, could not be justified under any circumstances.
“The recurring cycle of violence must be stopped as it directly affects the lives of the Papuan people,” he declared.
Komnas HAM, Uli stated, would collaborate with various stakeholders to address the Michelle Kurisi murder case. The commission called for a commitment from all parties to create a conducive environment.
“We hope that all parties refrain from using violent means, especially taking lives,” he urged.
Komnas HAM chair Atnike Nova Sigiro mentioned that the commission had not received specific complaints regarding Michelle Kurisi’s murder. Nevertheless, Komnas HAM had been closely monitoring and gathering information about the case through its Papua Representative Office in Jayapura and media sources.
Atnike further indicated that Komnas HAM had not initiated a special investigation into the case yet. The commission is currently conducting further research to determine how to best approach the case.
“We haven’t commenced special monitoring; we will first assess whether special monitoring is necessary concerning this murder case,” she clarified.
Atnike stressed the importance of handling the murder case in accordance with existing laws and human rights principles. She underscored that instances of violence in Papua were a matter of particular concern to Komnas HAM.
“Any act of violence in Papua has the potential to escalate the conflict,” she cautioned. (*)
