Wenda conveyed the anticipation of West Papua’s populace, including those in exile, who await their potential accession as an MSG member.
Reflecting on the unity of various West Papuan groups, including the West Papua Council of Churches, Wenda mentioned that 25 representatives are currently in Port Vila to celebrate the MSG leaders’ decision if it grants West Papua full membership.
Despite previous attempts during past Leaders’ summits, Wenda expressed confidence that this time their application will be accepted, reflecting their aspiration for a rightful place within the Melanesian family.
“Our dream, our desire — by blood and race — entitles us to be a member.
“Today in West Papua, seven regional executives support our cause. Our people support it. Intimidation and harassment from Indonesia are happening right now.
“We aren’t seeking independence, just full membership. In Indonesia, there is no hope, and now it is time for the leaders to make the right decision,” Wenda asserted.
Acknowledging their long-standing lobbying efforts, Wenda noted that their pursuit has been ongoing. He referenced the 2013 MSG Leaders Summit in Noumea, New Caledonia, where leaders voiced support for their self-determination, recognising the unity among the West Papuan people.
In 2014, Vanuatu hosted a meeting to gather all West Papua factions at the Malvatumauri National Council of Chiefs nakamal.
“In 2014, we gathered all factions in West Papua for the ULMWP. In 2015, during the MSG Leaders’ Summit in Solomon Islands, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare advocated for full MSG membership for West Papua, but we were granted Observer status instead,” Wenda said. “We are now pushing for full membership because we’ve met the criteria, making it time for the leaders to agree.
“This is the moment the entire world, all Melanesians, are watching. It’s a test for the leaders to see if they will stand up for West Papua in the eyes of the world.”
He commented on their vulnerable position due to the atrocities committed against them by Indonesia, which has resulted in their minority status.
Presently, ULMWP holds observer status within the MSG, while Indonesia is an associated member.
The MSG consists of member countries Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Fiji, and the Front de Libération Nationale Kanak et Socialiste (FLNKS) of New Caledonia.
The three visiting MSG Prime Ministers — Sitiveni Rabuka from Fiji, James Marape from Papua New Guinea and Manasseh Sogavare from Solomon Islands — are already in Port Vila.
The FLNKS will be represented by its former president, Victor Tutugoro.
The 22nd MSG Leaders’ Summit, chaired by Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau of Vanuatu, will commence with a ceremonial welcome by chiefs at Saralana at 9 o’clock this morning.
The official remarks will be followed by the unveiling of carvings at the MSG Secretariat, the Leaders’ Retreat at Warwick Le Lagon, and a plenary session.
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