Anies Baswedan on Asylum Seekers Relocation: We'll Wait
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3 September 2019 13:12 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan said that he is still waiting for the central government’s measures to relocate asylum seekers dwelling in the ex-Kodim building in Kalideres, West Jakarta.
“I’ve just coordinated with the central government this morning, they are also seeking a new place. We’ll wait,” said Anies in the City Hall, Tuesday, September 3.
Hundreds of asylum seekers refused to be moved from the site on Monday, September 2. They considered the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) unfair and slow in helping their transfer to the third country.
“We want justice, we need shelter. Justice, justice, justice,” the refugees shouted on Monday, September 2.
So far, Anies underlined that the city administration has no authority in handling the asylum seekers who came from different countries as they are the responsibility of UNHCR. Jakarta provided them aid on humanitarian grounds.
“But the solution for them is beyond our jurisdiction. We might cross the border if we do so.”
Anies Baswedan explained the city could only provide the basic needs of asylum seekers, such as meals, drinking water, and sanitary, while the control is beyond the city’s rule. “The central government is looking for a place. If it’s ready, we will expedite the relocation,” he said.
IMAM HAMDI
