Protesters in Jakarta Sing 'Bella Ciao' During Anti-Government Rally

Protesters in Jakarta, Indonesia, turned to the iconic Italian anti-fascist song "Bella Ciao" during a demonstration on July 17, 2026, expressing their dissent against President Prabowo and Vice President Gibran. The "Mosi Tidak Percaya Prabowo-Gibran" (Vote of No Confidence in Prabowo-Gibran) rally saw participants, primarily students, singing the song as a symbol of resistance.

The demonstration, initially intended for the area near the National Monument (Monas), was rerouted by police. Authorities cited military radius restrictions for blocking access to the Patung Kuda (Horse Statue) area. Despite negotiations failing, the protesters moved to Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan, where they continued their demonstration, including singing protest chants like "Ganyang, ganyang, ganyang Prabowo! Ganyang Prabowo sekarang juga!" (Crush, crush, crush Prabowo! Crush Prabowo right now!).

“

On this day, we are very disappointed because our peaceful action did not reach the initial agreement – the action at the Second Monument.

Organizers from the People's Struggle Alliance explained that the decision not to wear university insignia was to foster unity between students and civil society, emphasizing a shared struggle and common demands. The group expressed deep disappointment that their peaceful protest did not achieve its initial goals, particularly regarding the planned location.

Looking ahead, the alliance vowed to continue opposing government policies perceived as not favoring the public. They plan to consolidate future actions with other student groups and civil society elements to amplify their message and demands for policies that benefit the people.

“

We don't want to box people in by saying this is students, this is civil society. Because we are moving as one, together, with the same demands.