Papuan students in Bali reject G20 and demand self-determination

Jayapura, Jubi - Papuan Student Alliance (AMP) in Bali island rallied to reject the G20 summit and demand the right to self-determination for Papua on Wednesday, November 16, 2022. However, they were blocked by a mass organization and the authorities until they were pulled back to the Papuan Student Dormitory. The student alliance’s head, Jenno Dogomo, when contacted by Jubi on Wednesday via WhatsApp, said the protest began at 09:30 a.m. Bali time. At that time, the field coordinator directed the students to move from the Papuan Student Dormitory on Tukad Yeh Aya Street to the United States Consulate. However, they were immediately blocked by a mass organization.

"While we were standing and holding posters, we were blocked by a large number of people from a mass organization and Banjar Renon village officials. They repressed us, and shouted at us with racist remarks," Dogomo said.

At 10 a.m., the people began to throw the students with stones, wood, and bottles while the students tried to convey their aspirations against the G20 summit. A number of Papuan students and activists were injured.

"Our friend Hery got shards of glass thrown by members of the mass organization. Bolikam’s ear tip was torn. Yabes got hit by a slingshot bullet right in the stomach. Leksi was punched in the stomach. Andre was hit in the face with a bamboo stick, while Wemmy's lips were injured," said Dogomo. He added that the mass organization snatched and tore their posters and seized their flag.

At around 11 a.m., the students retreated and entered the Papuan Student Dormitory. The mass organizations blocked the entrance and exit of the dormitory. “We ask for advocacy and monitoring from all parties," he said.

Dogomo said the G20 summit in Bali was not any good and could have a negative impact on the Papuan people. "The G20 summit was held at the expense of the people of Bali. It can also have a worse impact on Papua which has abundant natural resources," he said. (*)

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