Indonesia Allows Orderly Demonstrations, Warns Against Anarchy

Indonesia permits public demonstrations, provided they remain orderly and avoid anarchic behavior, according to Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago. He stressed that the government has no intention of prohibiting citizens from expressing their opinions through protests.

"There is no prohibition on demonstrations, none at all. Demonstrations are a way for the public to express opinions. Not a single person prohibits it," Djamari stated on Wednesday in Jakarta. He clarified that while orderly protests expressing criticism are acceptable, "what is prohibited and not expected are anarchic actions, anarchic actions. If demonstrations are conducted orderly and express criticism, that's fine."

Djamari conveyed that President Prabowo Subianto has repeatedly emphasized the need for criticism to be directed at the government, believing it to be a refreshing element. "Therefore, please demonstrate, it's not a problem, as long as, as I said, it doesn't disrupt the interests of the wider public, as long as it's done in an orderly manner, without destruction, let alone burning, as happened in the past when government offices were burned or set ablaze," he added.

The minister assured the public that the security situation across Indonesia is stable and under control. He urged citizens to be wary of and not be influenced by misinformation circulating on social media. "On this occasion, I want us to agree to convey to the public not to be disturbed by this matter, we are handling all of it," he said.