The West Papua National Liberation Army-Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM), a long-standing separatist organization that has been fighting for West Papuan independence from Indonesia since July 1, 1971, is grappling with significant internal divisions that challenge its legitimacy and claim to represent the aspirations of the Papuan people for Papuan independence. In addition to competing with the West Papua Army, affiliated with the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP led by Benny Wenda), the TPNPB-OPM is also facing internal divisions related to the feud between Sebby Sambon, spokesperson, and Egianus Kogoya, commander of the Ndugama Regional War Command III.
Leadership Disputes and Allegations of Treason
Recent developments have highlighted internal divisions within the TPNPB-OPM. Sebby Sambom, a prominent spokesman for the TPNPB-OPM, has openly accused Egianus Kogoya of betraying the movement’s goals, including the release of Susi Air pilot Captain Philip Mark Mehrtens (a New Zealander), who was previously held hostage by the Kogoya group since February 7, 2023. Sambom accused Mehrtens’ release on September 21, 2024, of being a betrayal by the Kogoya group, which allegedly received IDR 50 billion (USD 3 billion) and had a secret agreement with the former Acting Regent of Nduga, Edison Gwijangge, who is an accomplice of the Indonesian government. Sebby claimed that Kogoya’s actions had endangered the OPM’s goals and that Kogoya would face treason charges in an upcoming special court.
These accusations have sparked a wider debate about the direction and unity of the OPM. Some factions within the movement argue that Kogoya’s leadership has deviated from the organization’s basic principles, leading to calls for his removal and a re-evaluation of the group’s strategy.
Disconnection from Papuan Society
Internal strife within the OPM has been exacerbated by a growing sentiment among many Papuans that the organization no longer reflects their interests. Indigenous leaders and community representatives across Papua have increasingly distanced themselves from the OPM’s separatist agenda.
For example, Fatrah M. Soeltief, Chair of the Sorong City Indigenous Peoples’ Institution (LMA), emphasized the importance of unity within the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia and rejected the OPM’s violent methods, which he said hindered development and peace.
Similarly, Paul Ohee, a Papuan youth leader, criticized the OPM’s commemoration of July 1 as West Papua National Committee Day, calling it baseless propaganda that threatens national unity and ignores the aspirations of the Papuan people for peace and prosperity. In fact, most Papuans consider TPNPB-OPM to be nothing more than a group of security disruptors who carry out robberies, murders, and rapes against civilians in Papua.
Shift Toward National Integration
In a significant development, several former OPM figures have openly declared their allegiance to the Republic of Indonesia, including Nicolaas Jouwe, Ondofolo Franzalbert Yoku, John Norotouw and Nicholas Simione Messet, all former founders of the OPM. This shift reflects a broader trend among Papuans who now see integration with Indonesia as a path to development and stability, rather than pursuing an elusive and divisive separatist agenda.
This shift is also evident in the political landscape, where Papuans are increasingly occupying key positions in the Indonesian government, further diminishing the influence and legitimacy of the OPM.
Conclusion
The OPM’s internal conflicts and growing disillusionment among the Papuan population indicate a turning point for the movement. As leadership disputes continue to flare and support wanes, the OPM’s claim to represent the genuine aspirations of the Papuan people is increasingly being questioned. The future of Papua may well depend on the ability of its leaders to unite, engage in constructive dialogue, and prioritize the welfare and aspirations of the Papuan people over a divisive separatist agenda.
