Checkpapuanow.com – Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka firmly rejected the notion that Papua serves as a place of political exile, emphasizing that the region holds a crucial position within Indonesia’s national framework. The statement came during his meeting with local traditional and community leaders in Manokwari, West Papua, on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
During the gathering, the Vice President highlighted key government flagship programs aimed at improving public welfare, including free health check-ups, the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) initiative, and the Garuda School development program. He reiterated that the administration remains committed to ensuring equal access to public services for residents across the archipelago, including Papua.
Gibran noted that widespread misinformation had circulated regarding his assignment to frequently conduct duties in Papua. The issue emerged after President Prabowo Subianto instructed the Vice President to maintain an office presence in the region to support development acceleration. Some critics interpreted the move as an attempt to sideline him politically.
Gibran addressed those claims directly, stating that Papua is an integral part of Indonesia and deserves focused attention from the central government. He stressed that the narrative portraying the region as a location for political banishment is inaccurate and undermines national unity. According to him, such perceptions are harmful and fail to acknowledge Papua’s role in Indonesia’s broader development vision.
The Vice President also pointed out that his directive aligns with the legal mandate to accelerate growth and governance in Papua. The responsibility is rooted in the amended Special Autonomy Law for Papua, specifically Law No. 2 of 2021, which revised Law No. 21 of 2001. Article 68A of the regulation establishes a Special Body responsible for synchronizing, monitoring, and coordinating special autonomy implementation in Papua. Under this framework, the sitting Vice President automatically chairs the body, regardless of who holds the office.
By underscoring this legal foundation, Gibran emphasized that his presence in Papua is part of a constitutional duty rather than a political maneuver. He added that strengthening coordination between local leaders and the central government remains a priority to ensure effective delivery of programs and to overcome regional disparities.
In addition to policy discussions, the Vice President took part in dialogue sessions with indigenous leaders, cultural representatives, and community figures. These engagements aimed to gather feedback, address local concerns, and reinforce collaboration in advancing development initiatives. Gibran expressed appreciation for the warm welcome from the people of Manokwari and reaffirmed the government’s pledge to support Papua’s progress through inclusive and sustainable strategies.
Manokwari marked the Vice President’s third visit to Papua in the past month, following earlier trips to Jayapura and Merauke. The series of visits signifies the administration’s continued commitment to direct communication with regional stakeholders and hands-on monitoring of program execution.
As the government intensifies its focus on eastern Indonesia, Gibran encouraged the public to avoid divisive narratives and instead contribute to strengthening national cohesion. He underscored that development in Papua is a collective responsibility that reflects Indonesia’s long-standing promise to uplift all citizens, regardless of their geographic location.
