Non-Violence Triumphs: The Release of New Zealand Pilot Signals Hope for Papua

INDONESIA, RAKYAT NEWS – In response to the release of New Zealand pilot Philip Mark Mehrtens, who was held hostage for over 19 months by a pro-independence group in Papua, Usman Hamid, Executive Director of Amnesty International Indonesia, expressed relief and hope for the future.

“We share the joy of Mr. Mehrtens’ family and friends at his safe return. His release is welcomed, and we urge that he receives the necessary support and care. This event is significant in the ongoing conflict in Papua,” he stated.

He emphasized that Mehrtens’ release serves as a reminder of the profound impact the conflict has on human rights in the region.

“This momentous development highlights the effectiveness of non-violent approaches in resolving disputes between the pro-independence movement and Indonesian authorities amidst ongoing human rights abuses,” he added.

Hamid further noted, “This should not be an isolated incident. The release of Mr. Mehrtens, after such a lengthy captivity, signals a potential pathway to address broader grievances in Papua through non-violent means.”

Background

Philip Mehrtens, who was taken hostage on February 7, 2023, by an armed faction of the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) led by Egianus Kogoya, was released on September 21, 2024. The captors had previously stated that they would only free him if the Indonesian government granted Papua sovereignty.

On September 17, 2024, the TPNPB outlined conditions for Mehrtens’ release, demanding the involvement of the World Church Council (WCC) as a primary facilitator, alongside the PNG Trust. The proposal included various high-profile figures from Indonesia, Papua, and civil society.