By Lord Harries of Pentregarth - 30th November 2011
Lord Harries of Pentregarth highlights the use of the Red Notice by Benny Wanda, West Papuan leader.
On Wednesday, I have an oral question down, "to ask Her Majesty's Government what means they have to hold Interpol to account, especially where United Kingdom citizens are involved."
Behind this there is a general point, that some governments are using the Interpol Red Notice procedure for political reasons. My particular concern is with Benny Wanda, the West Papuan leader who has had such a notice served on him recently. Benny was brought to trial in Indonesia for political reasons, but managed to escape and was granted asylum in this country. He is now a UK citizen. The Red Notice has been served on him for the same political reasons he was granted asylum in this country some 10 years ago. It has been served now because the West Papuan cause is at last moving on to the international agenda and the Indonesian government wish to intimidate him from travelling abroad and raising further support.
West Papua used to be a Dutch colony. However, instead of the country being handed over to the indigenous people it was invaded by Indonesia who, some 30 years ago, forced a small group of people to vote for incorporation into Indonesia. It is now an offence to show the West Papuan flag or speak in favour of the right to self-determination. Such offences carry long prison sentences. There is a heavy military presence and massive human rights violations.
Richard Harriesentered the House of Lords as the Bishop of Oxford in 2003. He was made a life peer in 2006 and now sits as a crossbencher.
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