ABC AUSTRALIA, 10/04/2003 08:02:47
Papua tensions said to be increasing
An international study group says a decision by Indonesia's President Megawati
Sukarnoputri to split restive Papua into three provinces has created serious tension
and could spark violence.
The International Crisis Group, based in Brussels, said the move -- outlined in a
presidential decree that has yet to be implemented -- appeared to be an effort to
weaken the independence movement in the remote eastern province.
Mrs Megawati issued the decree in January.
The groups Asia Programme Director, Robert Templer says the presidential
instruction has thrown Papua's administrative status into legal limbo.
The decree envisages three provinces called West Irian Jaya, Central Irian Jaya and
Irian Jaya and calls for the establishment of provincial governments and the drawing
up of borders.
Government officials were not immediately available to comment.
10/04/2003 08:02:47 | ABC Radio Australia News
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