Indonesia: President Joko Widodo to visit Jayapura and Keerom Regency, Papua Province, March 20-21

Event

President Joko Widodo plans to visit Jayapura and Keerom Regency, Papua Province, March 20-21. Widodo will arrive at Jayapura's Sentani International Airport (DJJ) at around 14:15 March 20 and will visit the Food Estate in Keerom Regency at 15:15 the same day. On March 21, Widodo will inaugurate the Papua Youth Creative Hub in Kotaraja, Jayapura, at 08:00, followed by visits to Youtefa Central Market at 10:30, Sago Garden at 13:00, and the Bioflok area at Nolokla Village at 14:00. The president will depart from DJJ at 15:15 March 21.

Authorities will deploy around 3,600 security personnel during the visit. A heightened security deployment is certain at event venues and routes used by President Widodo. Tight security and flight disruptions are likely at DJJ as Widodo arrives and departs from Papua Province. Officials will probably block roads temporarily near event sites and routes between stops on Widodo's itinerary. Localized transport disruptions are likely.

Some groups may stage protests due to political grievances and the perceived marginalization of local Papuan communities. Demonstrations could occur near the venues of Widodo's visit, government buildings such as Jayapura City Council, and prominent locations like Imbi Park. Hundreds of people may participate in related gatherings. Localized road closures and business disruptions may occur during any demonstration. Clashes are possible if authorities forcibly disperse the action or if protesters attempt to breach any security barriers. Mass arrests may occur if security forces consider any gathering to be disruptive.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Plan for localized transport disruptions at the affected locations March 20-21; allow additional time to reach nearby destinations. Avoid any protests due to possible clashes. Seek updated information from local contacts on rally plans, as organizers may not announce details in advance. If any violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a safe, nongovernment building. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks. Heed all security and traffic advisories.