Independence Day Ceremony in East Nusa Tenggara Disrupted by Aftershocks, Causing Panic

A ceremony commemorating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in East Lamba Leda, Manggarai Timur, East Nusa Tenggara, was momentarily thrown into disarray by an aftershock on Monday morning. The tremor occurred just before the proclamation reading, causing panic among participants and officials preparing for the event.

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Before the ceremony, there was panic due to an aftershock, but with the strong spirit of the participants, the ceremony continued solemnly.

The ceremony was briefly postponed as attendees reacted to the shaking. Despite the disruption and ongoing seismic activity in the Flores region, officials decided to proceed with the event, prioritizing safety by limiting the number of participants. "Before the ceremony, there was panic due to an aftershock, but with the strong spirit of the participants, the ceremony continued solemnly," said Rikardus Ronaldo Yasman, the sub-district head.

Preparations for the Independence Day event had been made, but the schedule was adjusted to reflect the post-earthquake situation. The ceremony was simplified, with schoolchildren excluded and any entertainment or additional post-ceremony activities canceled. "As per the Regent's direction, the ceremony was held as simply as possible, without involving schoolchildren, without attractions or other events, but it was carried out solemnly and briefly," Rikardus explained. Attendance was limited to sub-district office staff, teachers, and village heads from the surrounding area.

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As per the Regent's direction, the ceremony was held as simply as possible, without involving schoolchildren, without attractions or other events, but it was carried out solemnly and briefly.

The region has been experiencing significant seismic activity, with BMKG reporting 1,624 aftershocks following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake on August 15. Some tremors were felt even during the proclamation ceremony in other areas. In Labuan Bajo, residents felt a strong jolt around 8:48 AM WITA, leading to panic and people fleeing their homes. Residents like Maria expressed ongoing fear due to the continuous aftershocks, hoping for the seismic activity to cease.

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We are scared, there are still aftershocks every day.