YLBHI Head: Saiful Mujani's Reporting is a Threat to Democracy

The Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI) is providing support to Saiful Mujani, who is undergoing examination by the Jakarta Metropolitan Police as a reported suspect for alleged incitement. Mujani, the founder of Saiful Mujani Research and Consulting (SMRC), was questioned on Thursday, June 4, 2026.

Muhammad Isnur, the head of YLBHI, stated that the support is being offered because the report against Saiful Mujani poses a serious threat to democracy. "Reporting and criminalization are serious threats to democracy. It has become a modus operandi used to silence voices," Isnur said at the Jakarta Metropolitan Police headquarters.

Isnur urged the police to halt the proceedings against Mujani. He argued that Mujani's statements, which are the subject of the complaint, do not contain elements of criminal incitement. YLBHI also pointed to previous cases where activists were acquitted, suggesting the police should re-evaluate similar cases. "So there are actually many activists who have spoken out, and we have said from the beginning, Sir, please do not continue the process," Isnur added.

Saiful Mujani stated he would cooperate fully with the investigators, viewing interactions with the police as a normal occurrence for civil society. However, he expressed concern that the reporting of individuals critical of the government could continue. "This is not about Saiful, but it is about our community in general who are fighting for the establishment of our democracy, which is now increasingly shaky," he remarked.

The report against Saiful Mujani was filed by Robina Akbar, representing the "Aliansi Masyarakat Jakarta Timur" (East Jakarta Community Alliance). Robina accused Mujani of inciting rebellion against the authorities through statements made at a gathering of observers. Police confirmed the report, noting it was filed on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, and accuses Mujani of violating Article 246 of the Criminal Code. Mujani believes that while the report is a legal step, opinions should be debated with opinions, not through legal channels, unless physical harm or the violation of others' freedom and rights is involved. He commented, "Just refute it, criticism is met with criticism. But it's okay if you want to show more clearly that this country is becoming more fascist."