Jayapura – The Home Affairs Ministry has asked for alteration of the definition of "Indigenous Papuans" amid the ongoing election of new members for Papua People's Council (MRP).

MRP members consist of representatives from Papuan tribal elders, the religious community and women. "Indigenous Papuan" used to be defined as the indigenous ethnic people of Papua.

Home Minister Gamawan Fauzi wants to clarify that "indigenous Papuans should also include those who have been accepted as Papuan people by the elders".

The "indigenous" question has become an issue in the wake of recent calls that only indigenous Papuans should be allowed to run for regent or mayor positions.