April 5th, local time, Indonesian Interior Minister Tito publicly criticized Lukas Enembe, the governor of Papua. Lucas illegally crossed into neighboring Papua New Guinea through the trail on March 31. Lucas, who broke the law, was repatriated by Papua New Guinea. Dito accused Lucas of breaking the law openly and making “wrong” actions.
According to Indonesia’s International Daily on April 5, Dito said: “Although he is seeking treatment, his behavior is still wrong, incorrect and unprocedural.”
“The Home Office has never prohibited local chiefs from seeking treatment, including abroad, but it must comply with procedures that require the approval of the Ministry of the Interior.” Dito also said that if the situation is urgent, Governor Lucas should call him and then write an official letter.
“The Governor Lucas’s behavior is very embarrassing.” Dito stressed. Indonesia’s Ministry of the Interior officially sent a letter accusing Lucas on April 1. The content of the accusation letter indicates that whenever the local head exits the country for official or other reasons, he must act in accordance with the relevant provisions of the national decree on local government.
On March 31, Lucas went to the city of Vanimo, Papua New Guinea, for treatment. He took the “ojek” (one of Indonesia’s main means of transportation) by path to Wanimo city on the border with Papua Province.
After treatment, he returned to Papua Province, Indonesia, through Jayapura’s Skouw National Port (PLBN). On his return, Lucas and two of his entourage were deported by the Papua New Guinea Immigration Service.
According to Indonesian news website Detik on April 2, Lucas said that he went to Papua New Guinea for foot neurotherapy. He stressed that entering Papua New Guinea through the trail is a last resort, because he must receive treatment. He also said that he also had brain nerve problems and needed treatment in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia.
