Papua Pegunungan Successfully Holds Regional Election Peacefully, Proving It Is Not Prone to Conflict

WAMENA – Previously categorized as a conflict-prone area in the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Election (Pilkada), Papua Pegunungan Province has proven otherwise. The election process was conducted peacefully and smoothly, without significant obstacles.

The Commissioner of the Papua Pegunungan General Election Commission (KPU) for Technical Affairs, Melkianus Kambu, expressed his appreciation to all parties involved in maintaining the peaceful atmosphere of the election. He emphasized that there were no re-votes (PSU), recounts, or disqualifications in the region, despite initial predictions that it was the second most conflict-prone area after Jakarta.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to ensuring a smooth election. Papua Pegunungan, which was previously considered a vulnerable region, has successfully conducted the election peacefully without major issues,” said Melkianus in Wamena, Jayawijaya Regency, on Saturday (March 1, 2025).

He further explained that in the 2024 General Election, Papua Pegunungan and Central Papua were classified as high-risk regions, following Jakarta. However, this year’s regional election proved that Papua Pegunungan is capable of conducting the democratic process in an orderly manner.

“So far, there have been no significant issues in any stage of the election. In fact, KPU Papua Pegunungan has received recognition for successfully organizing a peaceful and orderly election. This success is the result of collaboration among all parties,” he added.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chairman II of the Papua Pegunungan Provincial Parliament, Bertus Asso, also expressed his appreciation to the KPU, security forces, regional election candidates, and the public for their role in maintaining stability throughout the election process.

“We highly appreciate the performance of the KPU and all election organizers from the provincial level down to the polling stations. Despite predictions of potential conflicts, Papua Pegunungan has demonstrated political maturity in its democratic process,” he stated.

Bertus acknowledged that the election process was not without challenges, requiring significant effort, patience, and emotional resilience. However, due to good coordination, all obstacles were well managed.

“Everyone involved was able to handle the situation effectively. On behalf of myself and the Parliament, I extend my highest appreciation to all parties who worked hard to ensure the success of this election,” he concluded.