Indonesia deploys joint forces to secure protests at parliament

Indonesia's government is mobilizing a significant joint security force, comprising the national police and armed forces, to oversee public protests scheduled at the House of Representatives (DPR).

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The Regional Police (Polda), Regional Military Commands (Kodam), and the community will work together to protect and support our citizens as they convey their aspirations to the DPR, ensuring these messages are channeled effectively and received well by lawmakers.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago stated that the operation aims to ensure a peaceful and orderly process for citizens expressing their aspirations. "The Regional Police, Regional Military Commands, and the community will work together to protect and support our citizens as they convey their aspirations to the DPR, ensuring these messages are channeled effectively and received well by lawmakers," Djamari explained.

The minister stressed that the security presence is crucial to prevent infiltration by external elements that could disrupt the demonstrations and distort the public's message. He assured that the goal is to escort protesters safely to the complex without disturbance, thereby preserving peace in Jakarta.

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We want citizens exercising their right to address the DPR to be protected and escorted so they can reach the complex without disturbance, which is precisely why police, military, and local residents are working together to preserve peace in Jakarta.

Chaniago clarified that the deployment does not intend to suppress free expression. Instead, it seeks to guarantee that public aspirations are conveyed safely, orderly, and directly to authorities. The joint effort between the military and police also aims to maintain public order and security across Jakarta, while safeguarding residents not involved in the protests. "There is nothing extraordinary about it," Djamari added, noting that preparations were underway as some citizens had already arrived.

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That is what we will implement, especially as some citizens have already arrived, and we are organizing everything so conditions remain orderly. There is nothing extraordinary about it.

House Speaker Puan Maharani echoed the sentiment, emphasizing parliament's openness to public input and urging demonstrators to maintain order. She expressed hope for a peaceful rally, allowing public demands to be presented smoothly. The DPR has already received recommendations on legislative drafting from academics, highlighting its engagement with public and expert input.

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Public participation and input are certainly welcome at the DPR building.