28 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗙𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗦 & 𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗦𝗧𝗦 𝗔𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗧 𝗬𝗢𝗥𝗨𝗕𝗔 𝗣𝗘𝗢𝗣𝗟𝗘

1)The first Nigerian Medical Doctor was Nathaniel Thomas King. His father was Rev Thomas King who assisted Bishop Ajayi Crowder in translating the Bible to Yoruba language. Dr King lived from 1847 to 1884.

2)The Yoruba language is the Niger-Congo language with the largest number of native speakers in the world, 50 million people speak Yoruba language natively in 2022 according to Ethnologue.

3)The first Nigerian Lawyer was Chief Sapara Williams. A Yoruba man who became a Lawyer in 1879. He was the Lodifi of Ilesa.

4)WNTV Ibadan was the first TV station in Nigeria and Africa. The first broadcast was aired on October 31, 1959. The government of Yorubaland were visionary enough ensuring their denizens had access to mass audiovisual media before countries like; Egypt: 1960, New Zealand: 1960, Israel: 1966 & South Africa: 1976. The station played a significant role in beaming taped Yoruba traveling theatre productions to households all over the old Western region.

5)The first Nigerian to release a music album was Canon Josiah Jesse Ransome-Kuti, Fela Anikulapo’s grandfather and Wole Soyinka’s great grandfather. He released it in 1878 and his last album was released in August 1921. His works are still kept at the British Museum. 

6)In 1894, Olayinka Herbert Macaulay became the first trained Nigerian Engineer. He also trained in England as an Architect. He was a Civil Engineer. He later ventured into politics and formed the first political party in Nigeria, Nigeria National Democratic Party, NNDP in 1923 and later the NCNC, the National Council of Nigeria and Cameroons. He was also a Journalist and a Surveyor. He is widely considered as the founder of Nigerian Nationalism. 

7)The first Nigerian woman to qualify and practice law was Stella Thomas, a Yoruba woman who became a Lawyer in 1935 and also became the first female magistrate in Nigeria in 1943.

8)Dr Elizabeth Abimbola Awoliyi nee Akerele was the first female physician in Nigeria. She became a Medical Doctor in 1910.

9)Folake Solanke was the first female Senior Advocate in Nigeria. She was also the first Nigerian female lawyer to wear the silk gown as Senior Counsel. 

10)The first indigenous Chief Justice of Nigeria was Sir Adetokunbo Ademola. He was also the longest serving Chief Justice of Nigeria between 1958 and 1972.

11)The Yoruba language and culture is one of the most influential on the African continent and in the Americas. The Yoruba are also one of the best researched ethnicities in Africa.

12)Chief Akintola Williams was the first Chattered Accountant in Nigeria who qualified in 1919 and also the first Nigerian to form a private accounting firm, Akintola Williams and Co in 1952.

13)The first woman to drive a car in Nigeria was Mrs Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, the mother of Olikoye, Fela and Beko.

14)The Yoruba people have the highest spontaneous rate of twin births in the world- About 1 in 20 births. Twins were traditionally revered and highly sought after in Yoruba society. There is an Orisha that protects them.

15)Emmanuel Olatunde Odeku (born, Emanuel Olatunde Alaba Olanrewaju Odeku from Awe in Oyo state 1927, Lagos, Nigeria – died, London, 1974) was the first African neurosurgeon trained in the United States who also pioneered neurosurgery in Africa.

16)Chief Hubert Adedeji Ogunde and Moses Olaiya are regarded as the patriarchs of Nigerian theatre and movie industry. Ogunde was an actor, playwright, theatre manager, and musician who founded the first contemporary professional theatrical company in Nigeria, the African Music Research Party, in 1945.

17)The first bank in Nigeria was established in Lagos in 1894, 10 years before the amalgamation. Its second branch was opened in Calabar in 1912 and it was facilitated by King Jaja of Opobo. It had its first northern branch in Zaria. 

It is First Bank Nigeria.

18)The Yoruba homeland, based majorly in the Southwestern part of Nigeria, is home to more than 70% of Nigeria's industrial capacity and is also host to the backbone of Nigeria's entertainment industry.

20)In 1986, Professor Akinwande Oluwole Soyinka, the great grandson of Canon Josiah Jesse Ransome-Kuti became the first African to win a Nobel Laureate in the field of  Literature. 

21)In 1976, Shooting Stars Sports Club 3SC of Ibadan formerly known as WNDC Ibadan (Western Nigeria Development Company), and were later called IICC (Industrial Investment and Credit Corporation) won the African Winners’ Cup thereby becoming the first Nigerian club side to win continental honour for Nigeria.

22)The first Nigerian to score a World Cup goal was Rashidi Yekini. He was a Yoruba man from Kwara state. He scored it against Bulgaria at USA ‘94.

23)The area of Yorubaland covers approximately 145,000 Suare Kilometre of land. Were it to be an independent country, it would be physically bigger than Greece, Hungary, Serbia, South Korea, Portugal, Ireland, Sierra Leone and many more countries.

24)The first television station in Africa was the Western Nigerian Television Service located in Ibadan’s and established in 1959.

25)The first university in Nigeria is University of Ibadan. Today, the Southwestern part of Nigeria also has the highest number of private universities in Nigeria.

26)The Yoruba are a people with a historical propensity for living in large urban centres. Yoruba cities have always been among the most populous in Africa. Today, around 11.5% of all West Africans are ethnic Yoruba while Yorubaland contains more than 30% of all Nigerian cities with over 100,000 people. They have been described as the most Urban African ethnic group by various ethnologists, sociologists and anthropologic writers.

27)CMS Grammar School, Lagos is the oldest secondary school in Nigeria. It was established in 1859.

28)And the first known primary school in Nigeria was Nursery of the Infant Church established in 1843 in Badagry and moved to its permanent site and renamed St Thomas Primary School in 1845.

📸 A Yoruba Woman in 1959. (Elliot Elisofon) 

Credit: Yoruba Intelligence Network 

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FOR THE AVOIDANCE OF DOUBT, WHO IS EZE CHIMA

Chima: The Aro Native Doctor.

“Eze Chima was an Aro native doctor. In pursuance of the role of the Aros in the Atlantic Slave Trade quoted…from Michael Crowder’s story of Nigeria, Chima left Arochukwu to Benin to set up as an agent of the Aro Long Juju, for the usual purpose of collecting slaves from Benin.

Whenever, in the olden days, a native doctor travelled to a place, he by custom would, on arrival, report himself to the local chief or to the head of the society of native doctors of the land. He is either the guest of the head chief of the clan or puts up with head of the local society of native doctors. Accordingly, when Chima arrived Benin he reported himself to the Oba of Benin who accepted him as his guest.

In time Chima settled down and set up practice as a native doctor and agent of Aro Oracle. He impressed the Oba of Benin so much with his magical art that he became very influential over the Oba. In consequence, the Oba installed Chima a chief in the palace of Benin. Thus the plain blunt and ordinary native doctor who left Arochukwu to establish an agency of the Long Juju, earned a chieftaincy title and became Chief Chima or Eze Chima.

Having found his feet firm in Benin, Eze Chima sent for his brother Ekensu and other relatives from Arochukwu, and also set up an Aro settlement in Benin similar to those Aros had set up within the description of Michael Crowder, in other areas throughout former Eastern Nigeria. 

With the march of time, Chima’s practice in Benin expanded down to Niger Delta. Among the Urhobos and Itshekiris also the fame of the Aro Oracle spread and clients from those areas trooped to him to consult the Oracle. The greatest index of Chima’s influence on culture in Benin Kingdom is found in the fact that Benin people adopted the Igbo days of the week – Eke, Orie, Afo and Nkwo – on which Chima made one sacrifice or the other or observed his abstinences and spiritual disciplines, as names also of Benin week days. And till today the Binis have, as the Igbo, Eke, Orie, Afo, Nkwo – as names of their week days. 

How Chima left Benin:

At the time Eze Chima lived in Benin, the mother of Oba of Benin was Asije. The Oba’s brother who also was the Oba’s War Lord was called Gbunwala. One day, Asije the mother of both the Oba and Gbunwala, the Benin War Lord went into a farm belonging to Eze Chima’s people and collected firewood. Eze Chima’s people then caught Asije the Oba’s mother, and beat her thoroughly for taking wood from their farm without permission. Back home, Asije reported to her children – the Oba of Benin and Gbunwala, the Benin War Lord, her bitter experience with Eze Chima’s people. Red with anger, Gbunwala, the Oba’s brother and War Lord, took some of his soldiers, went to Chima’s settlement, set upon Chima’s people – beat them thoroughly and killed some of them.

From that day, Gbunwala began to harass Eze Chima and his people. In the circumstance, Eze Chima decided to quit Benin with his people and return to the East whence he came to rejoin his Igbo kith and kin – or, in the alternative to find new settlements for himself and his people in places far and safe beyond the reach of Oba of Benin.

This story was told in Igbo Primer popularly known as “Azu Ndu”, approved by Government Education Department for infant classes of primary schools in the Igbo Provinces of then Eastern Nigeria, since the beginning of the 20th century. 

On their way out of Benin, some of the Eze Chima’s people settled at Agbo (Agbor), 44 miles away from Benin City which they considered far, and out of reach, molestations and influence of the Oba of Benin and his brother, Gbunwala. Others went beyond this distance and settled at Isele-Uku, Onicha-Olona, Onicha-Ugbo and Obio. When they reached the West bank of the Niger, some took a canoe and paddled down the River to Abo and settled. Led by Oreze, the eldest son of Eze Chima, the balance of Eze Chima clan crossed the River Niger to the eastern bank and settled among Oze people – the original inhabitants of what is today the big and prosperous commercial and education centre of Onicha (Onitsha). On page 73 of his story of Nigeria, Mr Michael Crowder believed that the migration of Onicha (Onitsha) people – this is of Umu Eze Chima clans – from Benin took place in the 17th century. 

Benin-Igbo Exchange of Culture:

Having lived for some years in Benin as one of the chiefs of the palace of the Oba of Benin, Eze Chima, the Aro agent of the Aro Oracle in Benin and his people had learnt Benin chieftaincy institutions and titles and so adapted the Benin system to the administrative structures and customs of the place where they settled among other West Niger Igbo and in Onicha (Onitsha) on the east bank. But as Eze Chima took away from Benin a copy of their chieftaincy institutions, so did he deposit in Benin, and the Binis adopted it, Igbo weekdays – Eke, Orie, Afo, Nkwo – which are vital in the determination of appropriate days for abstinences , spiritual religious cultures of the Igbo and Bini too. In other words, the West Niger Igbo borrowed from Benin in chieftaincy, traditions, just as the Binis borrowed from the Igbo in religious traditions—through the agency of Eze Chima.” End of quote!

MSG Foreign Ministers Convene to Shape Agenda for Leaders Summit

The foreign ministers of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) member countries are gathering today at the MSG Secretariat in Port Vila.

Their purpose is to approve the agenda for the upcoming MSG Leaders Summit, scheduled to take place next month in Port Vila.

This meeting follows yesterday’s senior officials’ meeting, setting the stage for important discussions.

According to reports from the MSG Secretariat, the foreign ministers’ meeting will address nine agenda items that were previously discussed and approved during the senior officials’ meeting. These topics will be submitted for final approval during today’s gathering, ultimately forming the official agenda for the MSG Leaders Summit.

The MSG consists of five member countries: Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and the Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS) of New Caledonia.

Notably, there is an expectation that West Papua will be granted full membership during the upcoming MSG Leaders Summit, further expanding the group’s representation.

Currently, Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau serves as the chairman of the MSG, leading the discussions and facilitating collaboration among member countries.

Here are some facts about the Moors in Europe

Here are some facts about the Moors in Europe: They ruled Spain and Portugal 754 years before the fall of the Mali Empire.

1. The Moors brought a wide variety of new fruits and vegetables to Europe.

The Moors brought many new fruits and vegetables to Spain and Europe that were considered exotic novelties at the time. These products included pomegranates, peaches, lemons, oranges, saffron, cotton, rice, silk, sugar cane, and a variety of other fruits and vegetables. Even though they are commonplace today, the Spanish at the time considered these objects to be almost alien. Several centuries later, they are still important components of Spanish food and production.

2. The Moors Developed Far More Rapidly Than Medieval Europe

The Arabs had an advanced civilization known for its architecture, science, mathematics, and exploration when they conquered the Iberian Peninsula. When the Moors arrived in Spain, they brought with them architectural innovations that astounded European stonemasons. The Alhambra, a fortress and palace complex in Granada, Spain, is one of the most stunning examples of Moorish architecture. Its construction started in 1238, and its grandeur and beauty far outstripped those of any comparable palace. It is still one of the palaces of the Islamic world that has been preserved the best today.

3. Chess Became Popular Across Europe Because of the Moors

Chess has been played for more than 1,500 years, but the Moors brought the game in its present form to Europe. The Moors brought chess to Spain after it had spread from India to the Arabic world. It spread through Europe's courts and society very quickly after it gained popularity. Chess was a well-liked game of strategy and endurance in medieval Spain. Chess was first mentioned in writing in Spain in the Catalan Testament in 1010 AD.

4. The Moors Took Their Hygiene Very Seriously.

A Moor, according to a catchphrase, "would rather go without bread than without soap." The Moors were known for their love of cleanliness. Due to their customs and the demands of their religion, the Moors valued cleanliness and often bathed; in the Moorish town of Cordoba, there were about 900 public baths. This made it possible to maintain proper hygiene at a time when plumbing and running water were still uncommon. Some sources also assert that the Moors introduced some kind of soap to Europe, ushering in a new era of hygiene.

5. The Moors Placed a High Value on Education

The Moors placed a high value on education and made sure that everyone in their realm had access to it. This was in stark contrast to medieval Europe, where education was only available to the richest nobles and clergy and where 90% of the populace was still illiterate. In fact, there have even been instances of European Kings who are illiterate. The Moors founded 17 prestigious universities in Spain, including ones in Cordoba, Malaga, Granada, Seville, Toledo, and Almeria.

6. Many Moorish Words Are Still Used Today in Spanish and English

The Moors introduced new ideas and words to Europe after they arrived, and these quickly assimilated into the common language. Up to 4,000 words in the Spanish language have Arabic roots, including algebra, checkmate, and influenza. Cipher, alcohol, chemistry, typhoon, orange, alkaline, cable, and nadir are additional examples.

7. The Moors Were Very Resourceful

The old Roman irrigation systems that the Moors discovered in Iberia had great potential, so they quickly adopted, improved, and revived them. This increased agricultural productivity and boosted the economy. Additionally, they were able to grow new crops they had brought, including figs, dates, apricots, lemons, and oranges. Thanks to the Moors' creative irrigation methods, Spain quickly rose to become one of Europe's top producers of crops.

8. The Moors brought significant Changes to Spanish Cuisine

For Europeans, spices were an uncommon commodity, and their cuisine was frequently regarded as bland. By bringing over hundreds of unusual spices, fresh recipes, and cutting-edge cooking techniques, the Moors altered that. We still eat a variety of wonderful dishes as a result of this culinary revolution. The spice markets of the Moors were renowned for their variety and provided options for chefs of all types. These medieval markets must have had the most amazing sights and smells.

#solutionreporters 

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PM MARAPE COMMENDS GROWING TRADE WITH GUANGDONG, CHINA

PORT MORESBY, JUNE 23, 2023 - Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. James Marape expressed his appreciation for the increasing trade ties between Guangdong, a prominent Chinese province, and Papua New Guinea during a meeting with Guangdong Governor H.E. Wang Weizhong on Thursday, June 22, 2023. The discussions revealed a substantial surge of 265.2 percent in trade volume between Guangdong and PNG from January to May this year.

Prime Minister Marape graciously accepted Governor Wang's invitation to visit Guangdong during his upcoming trip to China later this year.

Also at the meeting were National Capital District Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, State Enterprises Minister Hon. William Duma, Fisheries Minister Hon. Jelta Wong, Internal Security Minister Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr, other MPs and senior public servants.

Known as China's economic powerhouse, Guangdong boasts the largest and fastest-growing economy in terms of GDP among the 31 provinces and municipalities in mainland China. It is home to the influential Pearl River Delta (PRD) Economic Zone, along with the Shantou, Shenzhen, and Zhuhai Special Economic Zones.

Governor Wang stated, "Import and export trade between Guangdong Province and Papua New Guinea reached an impressive US$477 million (K1.6 billion) last year, marking a notable increase of 93.28 percent. The positive momentum has continued to strengthen, with import and export trade between our regions growing by 265.2 percent from January to May this year."

Expressing his satisfaction with the flourishing trade and investment levels, Prime Minister Marape emphasised, "The trade partnership between our two regions has seen a remarkable growth of over 200 per cent. However, there is still ample room for expansion, and we are eager to foster further collaborations with your province."

Recognising Guangdong as PNG’s primary trading partner in China, Prime Minister Marape commended Governor Wang's leadership, stating, "Guangdong stands as a shining example of a prosperous Chinese province. We warmly welcome investors from your province and encourage the continued strengthening of relationships between our capital city and your province and cities. It is a pleasure to have you here for the second time, and you are most welcome."

Prime Minister Marape also highlighted the establishment of special economic zones within Port Moresby and other regions across the country, stating, "We are creating special economic zones within Port Moresby, as well as in other parts of our country. I invite you to become a friend of our nation and to promote Papua New Guinea as a prime business destination."

Furthermore, Prime Minister Marape expressed PNG's willingness to provide land to Chinese investors interested in forestry, fisheries, oil and gas, and other sectors.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Marape informed Governor Wang about Chinese President H.E. Xi Jinping's longstanding connection with PNG, which dates back to 1998 when President Xi was Governor of Fujian Province. Notably, President Xi played a significant role in establishing the Lufa Mushroom Project in Eastern Highlands.

Highlighting this historical association, Prime Minister Marape shared his recent visit to Lufa, where he was presented with mushrooms cultivated through the Chinese project, stating, "Your President is a true friend of Papua New Guinea. Even when he served as Governor of Fujian Province, he maintained a special relationship with Eastern Highlands Province. Some of the projects he initiated, such as the Lufa Mushroom Project, continue to thrive."

Emphasising the enduring connection between the Chinese people and PNG, Prime Minister Marape acknowledged the long history of Chinese influence in the country, stating, "Chinese people have been a part of Papua New Guinea for over 200 years. Many of our foundational businesses were established by Papua New Guineans of Chinese origin. You are not among strangers but amidst a nation and people with strong ties not only to the Republic of China but also to the Chinese people."

Prime Minister Marape expressed his gratitude to President Xi for elevating China-PNG relations to a higher level and thanked China for its status as PNG's largest trading partner. He concluded by reaffirming the vital role that Guangdong plays in the friendly and cordial relationship between China and PNG.

******

Muhammadiyah leader Amien Rais: West Papua Is On target To Be Free

2014 Interview. 

A call for boycott of the 2019 Indonesian Presidential and General Elections by indigenous Papuans puts wind in the sail. And, it escalates the internationalisation of the West Papua issue since 2014. It was coming. 

For decades Indonesia used the ‘security approach’ that led to nowhere. It was also Papuan nationalists who gained the hard yards.https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/384576/military-approach-questioned-as-violence-worsens-in-papua

And, Indonesia cannot continue its claim to illegal sovereignty over the former Dutch colony. This includes deception through propaganda as it fights the decades – old ‘secret war’ on Australia’s doorstep. The  democratization project including extending universal suffrage to its restive region West Papua turns out to be a case of hubris & hypocrisy on steroids. 

Here is why.

In Indonesia, Professor Amien Rais is the most influential Muhammadiyah figure. He is also former chairman of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly.  His interview with Metro Tv in 2014, four years ago, put into its correct perspective the road map on the independence movement in West Papua.

Professor Amien Rais said the latest information on the West Papua issue is already in the public domain. He concluded that West Papua was on its way out of the unitary Republic of Indonesia. 

In the age of internet and cyberspace technology, information on the West Papua issue was available at the finger tips, and the conclusions can be deduced when one explores the internet for answers to questions about the struggle for independence in the former Dutch colony.

The conclusion is based on his four findings: 

(1) The issue of West Papua and its right to self – determination has become a problem for African countries. 

(2) The struggle for independence by indigenous Papuans has escalated over the decades since the 1960s, but especially in recent years with a comprehensive network of advocacy groups through the world 

(3)Pro – independence Papuan nationalists have systematically built an intellectual network with major universities throughout the world from Sydney to Harvard, Cambrigde, etc. 

(4) If the West Papua issue is channeled through regional forums such as MSG and PIF, and eventually brought to the UN decolonization committee, Indonesia cannot do anything about it.

In the case of Aceh, there was a need for a third party, the same with East Timor in which the UN as the third party intervened to conduct a referendum. West Papua will follow by all means. This is because the empirical evidence is on the table. And, there is no other way to solve the West Papua Conflict but follow the examples of Aceh and East Timor. 

 

The position held by Professor Amien Rais was shared by other Indonesian intellectuals. 

Professor Dr. Adnan Buyung Nasution. In September 2015, aged 81, Indonesia bid farewell to a man known for his idealism, anti-corruption and criticism of any Indonesian president holding office, when he died at Pondok Indah Hospital, South Jakarta. 

But, his legacy is fresh air that drives a ‘democratising’ Indonesia today.  

He founded the Legal Aid Institute in Indonesia and was a legal expert whose reputation already became a legacy. In 2010, he was appointed as Honorary Professorial Fellow in the Melbourne Law School, in recognition of his huge contribution to constitutional studies and scholarship on Indonesian law, and his commitment to building the rule of law in his home country. 

His pioneering work on legal aid and law reform, as well as being a key figure in the development of human rights law and constitutionalism in Indonesia, put him in a good position to talk on the West Papua issue. The reasoning is a very practical one, and put down to his defense of the weak.

Professor Dr. Adnan Buyung Nasution had a network of colleagues, and the consensus spread throughout the Indonesian civil society. In a democratising Indonesia, it is entrenched. And, allowing for error margin on the best way to look at the West Papua issue, this is traced to his work as a lawyer and human rights and pro-democracy activist during the reign of Indonesia's late President Suharto.

One of his perspectives is for a different conversation on West Papua, which he concluded is possible.https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/385679/west-papuans-urged-to-boycott-indonesian-elections

Since the 1960s, the ‘security approach’ by Indonesia was the biggest obstacle to finding a conclusion to debate surrounding two historical aspects relevant to West Papua’s demand for independence: first, West New Guinea’s past as part of the Dutch colony and its relations with Indonesia and second, the 1969 referendum, the so-called Act of Free Choice, to decide West Papua’s fate. 

From the very beginning, Indonesian nationalism paved the way for its independence which was proclaimed on August 17, 1945. However, West Papua was never part of the conversation. Mohammad Hatta made this perfectly clear in a meeting between Indonesian representatives and the Japanese warlord in Saigon, Vietnam, 12 August 1945.

Mohammad Hatta who later became Indonesia’s first Vice – President said: 

"... the Papuans are from the Negroid race, Melanesian people, so let the Papuans determine their own destiny ...".

Indonesia’s first president Soekarno also argued at the time that Papuans were still primitive so the independence of the Indonesian nation can do without them.

 

On August 17, 1945, Indonesia was proclaimed independent to cover the region included in the Dutch East Indies, namely "From Sabang to Amboina", not including the Dutch-New Guinea or West Papua. 

So, the unitary Republic of Indonesia was defined by territorial boundary. The 1969 Act of Free Choice therefore is a demonstration of this fact. It provides the legal basis for a different conversation on West Papua. https://asiapacificreport.nz/2019/03/27/violence-in-papua-must-end-before-talks-says-nz-foreign-minister/

In the wake of the Indonesian democratization which began in 1998, it was taken for granted that post – 1998 Indonesia was to be built on democratic tenets of justice and human rights, constitutionalism, and rule of law. 

And, there was momentum to revise the narration of West Papua’s history. Firstly, democracy has empowered the Papuans as the victims of a power struggle to challenge the previous Indonesia’s monolithic narration of history. Secondly, the Papuans’ alternative narration of history also serves as a medium of liberation from oppression by the Indonesian government. Thirdly, the Papuan story counters the theory that the narration of history is a privilege of the ruler and the winner.

The winds of change blew. In 2015, the same year Professor Dr. Adnan Buyung Nasution died, United Liberation Movement for West Papua or ULMWP was born led by Chairman and Leader of Free West Papua Campaign based in Britain, Benny Wenda. ULMWP grew in status. 

And, Benny Wenda received a huge show of support during his visit to Ghana at the official invitation of the Government of Ghana to attend the country's birthday. 

He was further interviewed for 1 hour live on TV 3 to explain the West Papua Conflict and struggle for independence for decades since the 1960s by the people of West Papua. 

In the networking that was built to promote the Free West Papua platform in Africa, Benny Wenda also connected with Bishop Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela's family in South Africa. The conversation on West Papua in the African Continent Papua went as far as corridors of power of the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP). 

Apart from Africa, there is Europe. 

The Free West Papua Campaign platform has been another success story in another continent. Europe.  In its meeting in Brussels, a presentation was made on West Papua at a joint meeting of the European Union Parliament in October, 2015.  

In the region that West Papua belongs, the internationalisation of the independence struggle gave rise to another regional forum called South Pacific Forum. But, the supranational organisation would be unnecessary. MSG and PIF diplomacy is sufficient to channel the West Papua issue to the UN General Assembly for resolution. https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2019/03/21/new-era-indonesia-south-pacific-engagement.html

For West Papua and its people, the promise of sovereignty has never been realized, despite a long and fraught struggle for independence from Indonesia. 

Indonesia’s decades – old ‘secret war’ on Australia’s doorstep is over. There is no need for propaganda now, time up. 

The advent of internationalisation of the West Papua issue confirms the observations made by Professor Amien Rais and Professor Dr. Adnan Buyung Nasution. Indonesia got it wrong for a long time. 

West Papua will be free. And, for a simple reason. Indonesia failed to win the hearts of Papuans. https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/378810/papua-governor-calls-for-military-to-withdraw-from-nduga

(Photo Caption: Professor Amien Rais -  the most influential Muhammadiyah figure in Indonesia, former chairman of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly; Professor Adnan Buyung Nasution - a different conversation on West Papua is possible; ULMWP Chairman Benny Wenda - called for popular mobilisation on 5 April 2019 to demand independence referendum; Mohammad Hatta - Indonesia's first Vice - president, Papuan race is negroid; Indonesia's 'security approach' to colonialism - indigenous rights were "domestic" and "internal" matters; Indonesia's democracy works elsewhere except West Papua -  case of hubris & hypocrisy on steroids)

Maru in talks with Korean Exim Bank

Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru has had a very successful meeting with the President and Chairman of the Korea Exim Bank, Hee-Sung Yoon .

The leaders meet was on the margins of the inaugural Pacific Island Countries (PIC) Korea Leaders Summit in Seoul, Republic of Korea late last month.

Mr Maru informed chairman Yoon that PNG wants to diversify its sources of borrowing and in that regard was considering discussion with the Korea Exim Bank and an alternative source of finance that PNG can do business with.

Mr Maru expressed PNG’s desire to build a strong relationship with Korea’s Exim Bank as such relationship will allow the bank to provide funding for various development projects in PNG such as seaports , road infrastructure , and airports amongst others.

Mr Yoon said PNG has a good record with the Korean Exim Bank as it responsibly repaid its first loan for the Wewak Strom Drainage Project on time without defaulting.

Mr Maru expressed satisfaction and said this is a positive record and portrays our country’s ability to respond to credit agency’s requirements of payments of funds for important infrastructure projects.

Mr Yoon advised that the two projects now in the feasibility study stages are Wewak and Vanimo Sea Port Development and should proceed to the next phase once the feasibility studies are completed.

Mr Maru assured President and chairman Mr Yoon that they will ensure the feasibility studies are completed soon to advance to the next stage.

“Indications are very positive for possible funding from the Exim Bank of Korea for the two ports development projects.”

PNG since establishing formal diplomatic relations with Korea, never had a formal arrangement in place to facilitate Trade and investment of our products, including fish, coffee, cocoa and chocolate products.

Timber products and LNG and many others and also allow Korea investors to invest in PNG.

Diplomatic Option - Plus For West Papua

1971, West Papua was to be the second independent Melanesian State to be free after Fiji. Fiji was granted freedom by Britain in 1970.

PNG was the 3rd Melanesian state in the international system when it became free in 1975.

Law, Diplomacy, & WAR.

The story went terribly wrong for West Papua. UN Charters on Self Determination were corrupted by the UN itself. Ortiz Sans the Bolivian UN representative on the ground saw the sham AFC but kept quiet. And, the UN General Assembly ' noted' the referendum result with only 1022 people voting out of 700,000 indigenous Papuan population.

For all above 18 voting in the AFC, about 400,000 people were to vote for a political future:(1) part of Indonesia ; or, (2) independence.

The fraud of West Papua is still covered up today.

The UN pet project became a nightmare. What happened?

The New Zealand pilot kidnapping by the armed wing of OPM reminded the world of the 1969 midnight cry from West Papua.

The world refused to hear then. 

The New York Agreement of 1969 was a cover - up for a deal already reached between USA, Indonesia, and Netherlands to ' surgically remove' West Papua from the UN Non Self Governing Trust territories list.

West Papua was the subject of the deadlock between Indonesia and the Netherlands between 1945 and 1949. And, the AFC provision in the New York Agreement intimidated the Dutch. The failed decolonization of West Papua was masterminded by the US itself, mother of democracy.

The Dutch let go. 

 But, the legal doctrine of Uti Possidetis Juris was defined by the international community as favouring the Dutch. It recognised Indonesia's proclamation of independence in 1945 without West Papua.

West Papua was then prepared by the Dutch to  self determine a political future from 1949 until 1969. The New York Agreement disrupted the self government process . Then, Indonesia invaded West Papua. The argument was the legal doctrine of Uti Possidetis Juris.

The Dutch already won the legal argument in 1949. 

There are two pertinent points to be made:

(1) New York Agreement was such that it produced a faked result; and, 

(2) In the aftermath of the New York Agreement August 15, 1962, the handover of West Papua from the Netherlands through the United Nations Temporary Executive Authority (UNTEA) was also a fake.

The UN presence on the ground in West Papua failed on two counts to deter Indonesia from completing its illegal claim to sovereignty over the Dutch colony.

It is now 61 years later. But, the blame or responsibility for the failed decolonization of West Papua still rests with the US, the Netherlands and the UN.

All three are to measure up to international law and reveal how history that was falsified by Indonesia in 1960s caused the genocide, ecocide, and ethnocide happening today in West Papua.

Papua Merdeka!

West Papua - International Opinion: What Is It?

Chagos Island and West Papua.

 

Britain has been pushed to decide on the future of its colonial possession in the Indian Ocean. It is 21st Century, today.

Read, here:https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-55848126

There is a growing international consensus that Britain should complete the process of decolonisation immediately.

Indonesia has a problem as to the definition of West Papua. There is pressure from the international community, and system, for Indonesia to complete the decolonisation process.

It is pursuing a strategy to continue with its illegal claim to sovereignty over West Papua:

(1) the independence movement through diplomatic option led by United Liberation Movement for West Papua, and internationalisation of the West Papua issue, is now labelled as terrorist; and,

(2) Special Autonomy is extended after the initial period ends this year, 2021.

MSG has the support of the people of West Papua through ULMWP to compel the international community to pressure  the final outcome on West Papua.

Indonesia needs to complete the decolonisation process of self government and determination in West Papua.

PNG has acceded to the UN protocol on Responsibility To Protect Doctrine Chapter 1 and 2.

In 2014, Prime Minister Peter O'Neill announced the change in strategy by PNG on West Papua.

Read, here:https://www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpreter/png-prime-minister-speaks-west-papua

PNG would respond to the aspirations of people of West Papua to be free. The international best practice will define how the government addresses the question of independence for West Papua.

We thank the Member for Ialibu/Pangia. He was the first PNG Prime Minister ever since independence to announce publicly the way forward on West Papua.

Read, here:https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/361534/png-pm-urges-pacific-countries-to-take-papua-issue-to-un.

MSG will consider West Papua's application for full membership to the sub regional political grouping in the course of the near future.

 This is a critical part of the move by United Liberation Movement for West Papua or ULMWP which represents pro - independence indigenous Papuans inside West Papua and in the diaspora in PNG, and abroad, to put the case for decolonisation and state formation for West. Papua to the international community.

We call on MSG to push the issue. The impetus at the regional level of the international system ensures the process is reinforced as the West Papua issue is progressed to the UN General Assembly for resolution.

MSG full membership for West Papua, please!

(Photo caption: PNG's Prime Ministers - since independence, the country's 7th prime minister Peter O'Neill became the first to define the way forward on the struggle by West Papua to be free; West Papua - it is long past time to demand freedom, the ' frozen conflict' is traced to the Cold War when a deal was struck between the West, including US, the Dutch, Indonesia, and the UN to stop West Papua from being decolonised in order to confront communism and its spread to Australia; State formation for West Papua - the exercise continues today, underground, but MSG has stepped up to progress the West Papua issue; PNG foreign policy on West Papua - Ialibu/Pangia MP Peter Oneill defined the contours so far, the details to come; PNC - it is time to return to office in 2022 to complete the sentence on West Papua as a matter of national interest?; 2022 NGE - Peter O'Neill has with him possibly winning candidates running for office, Nuku Open is one, Emmanuel Nassam is 2 X runner up, rubbing shoulders with the ' father of modern infrastructure in PNG' himself)

We live in Modern Humanity Civilisation today, different from colonialism rules in the past

All colonialism toward a country is a basic motive of Economic Interest and Maintaining Political Power interest. So that

Colonies live badly Suffering from all sorts of aspects of life but Colonisers use moments of opportunity to suck all sorts of Natural Resources and to focus on Genocide,  Ecocide and Ethnocide and so on.

Who is Indonesian? 

Indonesian is colonialist practising brutality, and inhumane treatment toward West Papuan never happened with colonial rulers in the past.

 Indonesian Colonialism in West Papua is alive and well.

 Indonesian rule in West Papua is too brutal,  oppressor, atrocity, and inhumane action to continue practice in West Papua in this Modern Democracy time. 

Indonesia's behaviour toward West Papua are: 

***to reject the investigation of the human rights emerging situation by the United Nations Human Rights were demanded by Pacific Countries and African-Caribean countries in the Year 2019.

*** Churches groups, ULMWP, and TPN-OPM demanded open peaceful dialogue under monitoring by a third party but Indonesian has to reject it. 

***West Papuan demand stopped implementing Special Autonomy second terms but rejected and continue implementing to supported by Military Power.

These are the reality of Indonesian colonial rulers in West Papua Melanesian Territory.

This is the time arrived for to Melanesian Governments to take accountability,  credibility,  and responsibility in this MSG meeting in June-July 2023 to kick the goal of West  Papua becoming Fully membership of the MSG is the only option to changing the System Political in cultural, and ethnically and territorially changing forever for just and good 

Indonesian Politics you have to know is: 

*** Indonesian used the global Cold War between block West and East in terms of West Papua conflict with American and other Western Countries to invade and occupied in

West Papua until today. 

In the same way,  today,  Indonesian Politic still using the moment cold war as a powerful tool to destroy the West Papuan People's interest in Independence  

***New York 1963 and Roman Agreement were not involved West Papuan representative has to manipulate West Papuan Basic Fundamental Rights. 

*** Indonesia is using Political Economics Ideology to convince Melanesian Governments including other Governments in Pacific Region to win Indonesian interest in retaining colonial rule in West Papua. 

These are bit situations related to West Papua's long-standing conflicts today. 

West Papuan People need Melanesian brothers and Sisters united to raise their voices to support West Papua. 

One People One Soul

Free West Papua....!!

West Papuan ‘provisional’ government backs full membership of MSG

LBy APR editor - June 6, 20230325

The Melanesian Spearhead Secretariat office in Port Vila

The Melanesian Spearhead Group Secretariat office in Port Vila . . . ULMWP back full West Papuan membership. Image: Vanuatu Daily Post

Asia Pacific Report

The self-styled provisional government of the United Liberation Movement of West Papua

“with the people” of the Melanesian region have declared political support for full West Papuan membership of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG).

In a statement issued in the Vanuatu capital of Port Vila after a meeting of thew ULMWP executive in Jayapura last Sunday, West Papua Council chair Buchtar Tabuni said full membership of the MSG would be a “sign of victory” for the Papuan nation seeking to become independent from Indonesia.

“[West Papua] membership in the MSG is our safety [net]. The MSG is one of the UN [recognised] agencies in the Melanesian sub-region, as well as the PIF [Pacific Islands Forum] and others,” he said.

READ MORE:  Rabuka backs call for West Papuan independence group to fully join MSG

Other West Papua and MSG reports

“For this reason, West Papua’s full membership in the MSG will later be a sign of safety for the Papuan people to become independent”.

The declaration of support was attended by executive, legislative and judiciary leaders who expressed their backing for full MSG membership status for the ULMWP in the MSG by signing the text.

Representing the executive, Reverend Edison K. Waromi declared in a speech: “Our agenda today [is] how to consolidate totality for full membership [ULMWP at MSG].

“Let’s work hand in hand to follow up on President Benny Wenda’s instructions to focus on lobbying and consolidating totality towards full membership of the MSG.”

‘Bargaining position’

This was how he ULMWP could “raise our bargaining political position” through sub-regional, regional and international diplomacy to gain self-determination.

Judicial chair Diaz Gwijangge said that many struggle leaders had died on this land and wherever they were.

“Today the struggle is not sporadic . . .  the struggle is now being led by educated people who are supported by the people of West Papua, and now it is already at a high level, where we also have relations with other officially independent countries and can sit with them,” he said.

“This is extraordinary progress. As Melanesians, the owners of this country, who know our Papuan customs and culture that when we want to go to war, we have to go to the wim haus [war house].

“Today, Mr Benny Wenda, together with other diplomats, have entered the Melanesian and African, Caribbean and Pacific countries, and more states [are] running.”

Gwijangge added that now “we don’t just scream in the forest, shout only outside, or only on social media”.

“Today we are able to sit down and meet with the presidents of independent countries . . .”

Legal basis for support

The events of today’s declaration were the legal basis for political support from the leadership of the provisional government of the ULMWP, he said.

“For this reason, to all the people of West Papua in the mountains, coasts and islands that we carry out prayers, all peaceful action in the context of the success of full membership in the MSG.

“As chairman of the judicial council, I enthusiastically support this activity.”

In February, Barak Sope, a former prime minister of Vanuatu, called for Indonesia’s removal from the MSG.

Former Vanuatu PM Barak Sope

Former Vanuatu PM Barak Sope . . . opposed to Indonesian membership of the MSG. Image: Hilaire Bule/Vanuatu Daily Post

Despite being an associate member, Indonesia should not be a part of the Melanesian organisation, Sope said.

His statement came in response to the MSG’s revent decision to hire Indonesian consultants.

Sope first brought West Papuan refugees to Vanuatu in 1980.

The same month, new Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka declared support for full West Papuan membership of the MSG

Indonesian Leader Joko Widodo - His Visit To PNG, 6 - 8 July 2023

Let the truth on West Papua remain, a matter of peripheral diplomacy, due to lack of a distinctive Papuan nationalism. But, freedom is in the air!

PNG Prime Minister, Peter Oneill, announced at the National Leaders and Governors Summit 2015 that West Papua had a case for self - determination, and PNG political leadership was duty - bound to speak up for West Papua's right to self rule for and freedom for 'our people in there'.

There is a standard script on West Papua.

Read. The details follow, here:

1. Connecting The Dots On West Papua. Part 1.

https://www.pngattitude.com/2023/04/connecting-the-dots-on-west-papua-part-1.html

2. Connecting The Dots On West Papua. Part 2.

 https://www.pngattitude.com/2023/04/connecting-the-dots-on-west-papua-part-2.html

3. Connecting The Dots On West Papua. Part 3.

 https://www.pngattitude.com/2023/06/connecting-the-dots-on-west-papua-part-3.html

West Papua - It Is Qualified To Be Free.

Opportunities For Resolution:

1. Federalism.

2. Autonomy or Special Autonomy.

3. Referendum.

Indonesia considered its options, and had at its disposal the means of resolving the West Papua conflict.

But, preferred to contain the demands for independence. The rule of the sword. Force. Then, after the fall of Soeharto, until Jokowi, Adam Smith's ' trickle - down' effect kicked in. 

The long struggle for freedom refused to go away. So, the dots or means were there to do the right thing. They aren’t development or military-based approaches. 

Referendum was the only way out. East Timor voted to be free. Aceh and West Papua were watching developments in East Timor. 

And as far as Jakarta is concerned, independence is out of the question. 

Here, arguments were cooked up to stop demands for independence. The data was different. According to Indonesia, West Papuan independence was a pipe dream. But, refused to test the proposition through a proper referendum.

1969 AFC was a sham.

One of the weaknesses of the independence movement was    Internal divisions among the indigenous Papuan. It was identified as a barrier, if not the main one.

But, West Papua is qualified to be independent. Referendum therefore is the only solution left.

PARLIAMENT TO DELIBERATE DEFENCE COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH U.S

The Defence Cooperation Agreement signed between Papua New Guinea and the US during the US Pacific Islands Forum in Port Moresby last month will be tabled in this session of Parliament for members to deliberate.

Prime Minister James Marape said this after Northern Governor Gary Juffa raised questions on the implications and benefits of this agreement.

Mr. Marape assured the House that all due processes were followed in developing this important document.

"This session of Parliament, we will table the Defence Cooperation Agreement that was signed between Papua New Guinea and the United States of America. Parliament will have an opportunity to speak on this DCA," the Prime Minister said.

The Defence Corporation Agreement was signed between Defence Minister Win Bakri Daki and US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken in place of US President Joe Biden.

The DCA aims to help PNG build its defence capabilities and capacities and also address security issues such as illegal fishing ,logging and drug smuggling in PNG waters.

NBC News PNG - Denyse Kalau

GOVERNORS COMMITTEE TO ADDRESS ISSUES IN PROVINCES

The National Government is working towards establishing a Governors Committee that will have a collective voice to address issues faced in provinces.

Prime Minister James Marape announced this yesterday, when opening the Governors Conference in Port Moresby.

The Committee will be led by Morobe Governor Luther Wenge and his deputy will be East New Britain Governor Michael Marum.

Many challenges faced in the provinces are common, hence this Committee will work towards a collective voice and experience sharing to address development issues in respective provinces.

The Committee of Governors will work together to deliver outcomes the country expects.

The Prime Minister said the State will ensure calls made by Governors for reforms are honoured within the context of ensuring they are delivering to the expectations of the people and the country.

He challenged Governors to start working with less talking.

Prime Minister Marape also called on the Secretary for the Department of Personnel Management Taies Sansan to start running more training's for Provincial Administrators to make them more aware of what needs to be done.

The theme for this year's Governors Conference is "Continuing dialogue to empower provinces for improved service delivery, economic growth and self-reliance.”

The Conference continues today.

NBC News PNG - Benedine Waluka

GOVERNORS COMMITTEE TO ADDRESS ISSUES IN PROVINCES

The National Government is working towards establishing a Governors Committee that will have a collective voice to address issues faced in provinces.

Prime Minister James Marape announced this yesterday, when opening the Governors Conference in Port Moresby.

The Committee will be led by Morobe Governor Luther Wenge and his deputy will be East New Britain Governor Michael Marum.

Many challenges faced in the provinces are common, hence this Committee will work towards a collective voice and experience sharing to address development issues in respective provinces.

The Committee of Governors will work together to deliver outcomes the country expects.

The Prime Minister said the State will ensure calls made by Governors for reforms are honoured within the context of ensuring they are delivering to the expectations of the people and the country.

He challenged Governors to start working with less talking.

Prime Minister Marape also called on the Secretary for the Department of Personnel Management Taies Sansan to start running more training's for Provincial Administrators to make them more aware of what needs to be done.

The theme for this year's Governors Conference is "Continuing dialogue to empower provinces for improved service delivery, economic growth and self-reliance.”

The Conference continues today.

NBC News PNG - Benedine Waluka