A human rights group has condemned the appointment of the new Indonesian Minister of Defence, saying his record spells bad news for West Papua.
Joko Widodo made a victory speech calling for unity. Photo: AFP
The East Timor and Indonesia Action Network (ETAN) says the appointment of retired General, Ryamizard Ryacudu, proves that the newly-inaugurated President Joko Widodo is not serious about promoting human rights.
The ETAN coordinator John Miller, says General Ryacudu is a relic of the past with a history of excusing rights violations by soldiers, threatening human rights critics, and asserting the military's right to meddle in civilian affairs.
Mr Miller says Indonesia's anti-corruption agencies vetted cabinet nominees at President Widodo's request, and he rejected several based on their recommendations.
While campaigning, the President said he would open a new dialogue with West Papua.
