2 Mar 2011

Papua Coalition opposes Indonesian observer application to MSG

6:12 pm on 2 March 2011

A Papuan pro-independence alliance is calling for Indonesia's application for observer status at meetings of the Melanesian Spearhead Group to be declined.

The West Papua National Coalition for Liberation's Secretary General says Indonesia's application will be considered when the MSG meets at the end of the month.

Rex Rumakiek says the application is a bid to crush his organisation.

"That will end our efforts, our successful efforts to get the MSG to support our case to the United Nations. Indonesia should not be allowed to be a member or even observer of Melanesian Spearhead Group because that is only against the basic principles from which this body was established."

Rex Rumakiek says if Indonesia's application is approved, the West Papua National Coalition for Liberation will apply to the MSG for full membership.