10 Sep 2018

West Papuan charged over pro-independence Facebook video

8:09 pm on 10 September 2018

A West Papuan in Timika has been charged by Indonesian authorities over a video he posted on Facebook.

Agustinus Yolemal was charged with "disseminating hostility against the state ideology" under the Law on Electronic Information and Transaction.

If convicted, he would face up to six years' imprisonment.

Mr Yolemai is alleged to have posted a video earlier this year in which he and his son are seen and heard advocating for an independent Papua, and calling for a referendum.

Two weeks ago, Mr Yolemai and his family were arrested and taken to the Timika police station for interrogation about the video.

While his three family members were subsequently released, he has been charged and remains detained.

Human rights groups says Agustinus Yolemal is a prisoner of conscience and should be immediately and unconditionally released.