President Prabowo Respects Free Speech, Orders Tough Action Against Rioters, Backs Cuts to DPR Benefits
Main Takeaways
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JAKARTA, Investortrust.id — President Prabowo Subianto has met with leaders of political parties, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly on Sunday, Aug 31, 2025, to address ongoing unrest in Jakarta and several other Indonesian cities.
Prabowo affirmed that the state respects freedom of expression and assembly, but warned that acts of anarchy, looting, or violence will be dealt with firmly under the law. He stressed that law enforcement officers must protect both citizens and public facilities built with taxpayers’ money.
The president revealed that political party leaders had agreed to take strict action against their legislators, including revoking their membership in the House of Representatives for making misleading statements. Parliamentary leaders also committed to revoking certain policies, notably excessive benefits for lawmakers and imposing a moratorium on overseas working visits.
“I have requested that investigations into officers’ misconduct be carried out quickly, transparently, and openly to the public,” Prabowo said. He confirmed that the National Police was already conducting examinations of personnel accused of wrongdoing during recent demonstrations.
The president cited Indonesia’s commitment to international human rights standards, referencing the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and Law No. 9 of 1998, which guarantee freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. However, he underlined that when protests turn into anarchy, destruction of public facilities, or threats against individuals, the state has a duty to act.
Deadly Protests
The past week has been marked by mass demonstrations that escalated into violent clashes. The unrest was sparked by the death of Affan Kurniawan, a motorcycle taxi driver who was run over by a police tactical vehicle during a labor protest in Jakarta on Thursday, Aug 28, 2025.
His death triggered widespread anger and solidarity actions across major cities, including attacks on toll gates, arson at public transport facilities, and the looting of Finance Minister Sri Mulyani’s private residence in South Tangerang on Sunday. Several people were injured, and the Jakarta Composite Index fell by more than 2 percent amid fears of prolonged instability.
Firm Actions
Prabowo ordered the National Police and the Armed Forces to take “the firmest possible action” against looting, destruction of economic centers, and any movement that veers toward treason or terrorism. At the same time, he encouraged citizens to voice aspirations peacefully, promising that their demands would be heard, recorded, and followed up.
The president also called on parliamentary leaders to directly invite community and student leaders to dialogue. He urged all ministries and government agencies to accept public feedback and corrections openly.
Prabowo reassured the public that his government remains committed to defending the interests of ordinary citizens, particularly the poorest and most marginalized. “Indonesia is on the verge of a great awakening. Do not let us be divided. Speak your aspirations peacefully, without rioting, looting, or destroying public facilities,” he said.
He warned against interference from groups that seek to disrupt Indonesia’s prosperity and unity. Calling on citizens to uphold the spirit of “gotong royong,” or mutual cooperation, he emphasized the need for collective effort to safeguard families, communities, and the nation.
“This is my statement after discussions with all political party leaders and state institutions,” Prabowo concluded.
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