Nadi, 21/5 (Jubi) – The indigenous people of Guam, New Caledonia, French Polynesia, Tokelau and Papua won support for decolonization during a Pacific regional seminar in Nadi, Fiji.
The seminar is organized by the UN Special Committee on Decolonization (the Committee of 24). Thursday to Friday with a view to accelerating action in implementation of the Third International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism (2011-2020).
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The opening seminar was marred by calls for the liberation for the entire regions within the Pacific territory which are still under the shackles of of colonialism.
The Pacific Region Non Governmental Organization (PRNGO) called for new ways among Pacific countries in supporting the decolonization.
“Give freedom to the indigenous people of Guam, New Caledonia, French Polynesia, Tokelau and Papua to let them determine their own future,” Peter Emberson, the Spokesperson of the PRNGO and the official of the Pacific Council of Churches.
He said it’s the responsibility of the countries that run the colonial administration for preparing the indigenous people within their territories to practice their right of self-determination in accordance with the international law. He further urged the entire people of Pacific Islands to together actively fight colonialism and support decolonization within the region.
“It is the right of those whose countries are non-self governing territory or regulated under the colonial administration or the administrative authorities to determine their future politics,” Emberson said.
He further said currently the people of Pacific countries are talking about the issues of the Rapa Nui or the Easter Island regulated by Chile and Papua regarded as the province in Indonesia seeking the opportunity to be registered into the UN list of the Non-Self Governing Territories.
Fiji Prime Minister Commodore Bainimarama while opening the seminar reminded the participants about considering everyone’s voices. If the independence is their option, be respect and support them.
“We are neutral, not intervene about what would be decided. But we firmly said whatever it would be, it should be theirs,” he said. (Jubi/Benny Mawel/rom)
