West Papuan Advocate Seeks Independence Support
Advocacy efforts continue as tensions rise in the region.
Seeking backing for West Papuan independence, **Octovianus Mote**, vice-president of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), visited Aotearoa New Zealand late last year. Ruled by Indonesia for over six decades, West Papua’s future remains uncertain.
Mote’s Mission in New Zealand
**Mote** found a “hero”
in the Green Party, who hosted him during his visit. His itinerary included speaking at a West Papua seminar held at the Māngere Mountain Education Centre. He also offered prayers for the West Papuan solidarity movement in a Talanoa TV segment.
In September 2024, **Octo Mote** offered a “blessing for peace and justice”
during a lunch held at the home of New Zealand activist **Maire Leadbeater**. He voiced his hopes regarding West Papua’s struggle for independence.
He paid tribute to **Leadbeater** along with **Nik Naidu** from the Whānau Community Centre and Hub, noting, “We remember those who cannot eat like us, especially those who oppressed . . . The 80,000 people in Papua who have had to flee their homes because of the Indonesian military operations.”
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Upcoming Event: Nuclear Free and Independent Pacific Exhibition
On July 12, 2025, **Phil Twyford** MP will inaugurate the Nuclear Free and Independent Pacific (NFIP) exhibition. The week-long event will be held at the Ellen Melville Centre Women’s Pioneer Hall, commencing at 3 p.m.
According to the United Nations Human Rights Office, human rights concerns persist in Papua, including allegations of excessive use of force by security forces and restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly (OHCHR 2024).
Further details can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/events/1856900961820487/
The pursuit of independence and justice for West Papua continues to gain international attention, highlighting the complex political landscape in the Pacific region.
