# Indonesian government stance on Papua sovereignty > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/indonesian-government-stance-on-papua-sovereignty > Updated: 2026-08-19T03:30:47.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. Indonesian Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has addressed regional governance and sovereignty in Central Papua. During meetings with local leaders and the Central Papua Regional House of Representatives in Nabire, Pigai emphasized that while Papuans are entitled to demand justice, welfare, and constitutional rights, they are not permitted to demand independence from the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. Pigai urged local officials to abandon corrupt practices, specifically calling for an end to the tradition of transporting money to Jakarta to influence government policies. He stated that government services in the capital are free and that state policies cannot be purchased. To address grievances, the Minister encouraged the use of evidence-based advocacy and legal channels within the framework of the 1945 Constitution. He also called for a humanist approach to security and governance, stressing that government programs such as education and health must be implemented effectively to reach the community without political interference. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-19: Natalius Pigai urges Papua officials to end bribery and respect Indonesian sovereignty Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai urged Papua officials to stop bribing policymakers in Jakarta and stated that while welfare demands are valid, secession from Indonesia is not permitted. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/natalius-pigai-urges-papua-officials-to-end-bribery-and-respect-indonesian-sovereignty ### 2026-08-16: Natalius Pigai: Papuans may demand rights but not independence Indonesia's Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai stated Papuans may demand justice and welfare through legal means, but independence from Indonesia is not permitted. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/natalius-pigai-papuans-may-demand-rights-but-not-independence --- Cite as: Indonesian government stance on Papua sovereignty. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/indonesian-government-stance-on-papua-sovereignty