Masariku Network, 24 August 2004
IDPs in the Moluccas make statement for National Day
Celebration
Internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Moluccas express their frustration with the
government's inability to facilitate durable solutions. In a statement circulated on
August 17, the Indonesian Independence Day, the Masariku Network in Ambon on
behalf of IDPs criticizes corruption in the disbursement of government humanitarian
assistance. The statement plays with the wording of the original declaration of
independence from Dutch colonial rule made by the first President and Vice President
of the Indonesian republic, Sukarno and Hatta in 1945. In contrast to the original
declaration, the IDP declaration twists words and states that independence has been
taken away from the Internally Displaced population and victims of conflict in the
Moluccas, by inadequate government response to their needs.
The original statement of 1945 holds great value in the nation building of Indonesia,
and represents a proud moment in Indonesian history, where the Indonesian people
rose up against Dutch colonial rule. With this historical background the declaration of
the IDPs becomes an important reminder that IDPs are to be treated in accordance
with their rights as Indonesian citizens.
The statement from the Masariku Network on behalf of the IDPs reads in full:
Proclamation of the IDPs in the Moluccas
We, the IDPs of the Moluccas, declare herewith that our independence has been
taken away from us.
Matters regarding our rights to material assistance to build houses and financial
assistance to return home have already been arranged in a manner of accurate
corruption within short time.
Moluccas, 17 Augustus 2004
In the name of IDPs and victims of conflict in the Mocluccas
Masariku Network Ambon
(Unofficial translation by JRS Indonesia)
Publication Date : August 18, 2004 11:09 AM
MASARIKU NETWORK
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