West Papuans wait on MSG with bated breath

A West Papuan leader Benny Wenda says the movement has taken heart from a passionate speech by the new chairman of the Melanesian Spearhead Group.

West Papuans are awaiting a decision from the group on their application for membership of the MSG which would give them their first official recognition in any regional or international fora since incorporation into Indonesia.

Mr Wenda who represents the United Liberation Movement for West Papua says Mr Sogavare's call for solidarity is encouraging.

"I think his speech is the really amazing ever and I think now its time for the Melanesian leaders to show the world that they can handle this problem because this is the longest struggle, 50 years is enough that's why it is time for Melanesian leaders to look at this issue and bring West Papua into Melanesia."

Sogavare assumes MSG chair

The Solomon Islands prime minister Manasseh Sogavare has been officially elected as new chairman of the Melanesian Spearhead Group.

Mr Sogavare, who is hosting the MSG leaders summit currently underway in Honiara, will hold the chair on behalf of Solomon Islands which has the position for two years according to the MSG's rotational system.

His election as chairman was moved by Fiji prime minister Frank Bainimarama and seconded by Papua New Guinea's prime minister Peter O'Neill.

Mr Sogavare takes over as chair from Victor Tutugoro of the FLNKS movement for New Caledonia's Kanaks.