Papuaaround.com – In a major gesture of national unity, President Prabowo Subianto has granted amnesty to six prisoners convicted of treason without arms in Papua. The announcement, made by Minister of Law and Human Rights Supratman Andi Agtas on Tuesday (August 5, 2025), highlights the government’s broader initiative to promote reconciliation and social cohesion across Indonesia.
“This is a symbol of unity for the nation,” said Supratman during a public statement. “Yes, there are still issues, but it’s better if we choose to come together. This amnesty sends a message to all Indonesians about the importance of solidarity.”
The six individuals who received presidential amnesty include Josephien Tanasale from Ambon, detained at Ambon Class III Correctional Facility; Viktor Makamuke Bin Paulus (deceased) from Papua, held at Sorong Class IIB Prison; Alex Bless, Yance Kambuaya (alias Yance), Adolof Nauw, and Hilkia Isir, all from Maybrat, Papua, and previously detained at Ujung Pandang Class I Correctional Facility.
This move is part of a larger policy step involving the release of a total of 1,178 inmates across the country. Of these, 1,017 were serving sentences for drug-related offenses. In addition to the six Papuan political prisoners, four individuals convicted of insulting the head of state also received clemency. Furthermore, the group includes 150 inmates with special needs and one prisoner convicted of another criminal offense.
Breaking down the 150 inmates with special needs, the government noted that 78 are individuals with mental health disorders, 16 are palliative care patients, one has an intellectual disability, and 55 are elderly individuals over the age of 70.
Supratman emphasized that the President’s decision is not limited to certain regions or groups, but rather reflects a nationwide effort to engage all elements of Indonesian society—including political leaders and community figures—in dialogue and cooperation. “The message is clear,” he said. “This is an invitation to unite, regardless of political affiliation or regional background.”
While the decision has sparked varied responses across political circles and the public, government officials stress that the amnesty is not a political maneuver, but rather a humanitarian and constitutional act aimed at building a more inclusive Indonesia.
The Ministry of Law and Human Rights has also indicated that further proposals for amnesty may be submitted in the near future, potentially extending clemency to more inmates under specific humanitarian grounds.
This amnesty given by President Prabowo marks one of the first major legal and political gestures under President Prabowo’s administration. It signals a potential shift toward reconciliation in areas with a long history of unrest, such as Papua, while also addressing broader justice reform through compassionate policies.
As the country continues to navigate complex social and political landscapes, this move could set a precedent for future efforts to resolve conflict and strengthen national unity.