Rebuttal to Misrepresentation of Prime Minister Marape’s MSG Statement by the Post Courier
Tuesday, 24th June 2025
It is with measured concern that we issue this formal rebuttal to the Post-Courier’s front-page headline dated 24 June 2025, which gravely misrepresents the content and intent of Prime Minister Hon. James Marape’s remarks at the 23rd Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Leaders’ Summit held in Suva, Fiji.
The headline, “Bring West Papua to the Table,” dangerously oversimplifies and distorts the Prime Minister’s carefully articulated statement. In his official address, Prime Minister Marape clearly reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s full respect for Indonesia’s sovereignty, stating unequivocally that the political status of West Papua remains an internal matter for the Republic of Indonesia.
At the same time, Prime Minister Marape called on MSG to continue advocating for the cultural rights, traditional land ownership, and human dignity of Melanesians living in Indonesia. This was not a political provocation but a cultural and humanitarian appeal, rooted in ancestral kinship and Melanesian identity—one that predates colonial borders and echoes across generations.
To mischaracterize such a statement as a geopolitical challenge is both misleading and irresponsible. It ignores the Prime Minister’s clear diplomatic tone and risks undermining Papua New Guinea’s credibility and constructive role in regional affairs.
At a time when balanced and factual journalism is vital to public understanding, media outlets must exercise greater editorial responsibility. The Post-Courier’s framing fails to meet these standards and carries the potential to misinform the public and damage international relations.
We respectfully urge the Post-Courier to issue a prompt clarification or correction, consistent with journalistic ethics and in service of public trust. Accuracy in reporting is not just a professional standard and as it is a civic duty.