Prabowo's Rise as President: Implications for Papua's Future

Indonesia's presidential election took place on February 14, 2024, resulting in Prabowo Subianto's shocking victory in Papua. This win can be partly attributed to the positive reception of outgoing President Joko Widodo's policies in the region, known as the 'Jokowi effect.' Under Jokowi, Papua witnessed significant infrastructure development and the opportunity to host the Indonesia National Games in 2021, which aimed to enhance local confidence in security. However, despite these advancements, there is still considerable dissatisfaction over the lack of communication regarding ongoing human rights violations by the military. Prabowo's historical background raises concerns about his potential presidency. Previously, his involvement in military operations during his tenure under dictator Suharto casts a long shadow, especially regarding his alleged participation in human rights abuses in Papua. Although specific allegations about his past remain unsubstantiated, his military approach and support for a notorious company known for local rights violations further exacerbate distrust among Papuans. While Prabowo's position could affect ongoing military persecution against civilians, the immediate future of Papua under his administration looks bleak due to his controversial stance on military operations. The fears are intensified by his historical disregard for Papuan interests and wellbeing, leading many to question the sincerity of his commitment to addressing long-standing regional issues. In summary, Prabowo's victory in Papua, although surprising, seems unlikely to bring about the necessary dialogue and reform that the region desperately needs, given his past and the prevailing attitudes towards military action in the province.