It is okay if you want to hold a demonstration, but we must remember that there are rules for it."
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has called on all parties to end violence and crimes ahead of the demonstration to promote freedom of expression and peace on the anniversary of World Human Rights Day 2015.

The government will not curb the publics freedom of expression and the right to hold demonstrations, but everything has rules that should be obeyed, President Widodo stated at the Presidential Palace on Friday.

"It is okay if you want to hold a demonstration, but we must remember that there are rules for it," he noted.

On the occasion, the president also emphasized the importance of maintaining synergy between the national commission on human rights, law enforcement agencies, and judicial institutions.

"We must work together to find solutions to human rights issues that have yet to be solved," President Widodo added.

It will be one approach in the development process for the welfare of the Indonesian people, he stated.

He also emphasized that the fulfillment of human rights is not only the responsibility of the central government but also the local government.

Hence, the president supported the implementation and promotion of human rights-friendly cities or districts, such as Palu in Central Sulawesi, Solo and Wonosobo in Central Java, and Jayapura in Papua, among others.

Moreover, he remarked that human rights education should be imparted to government officials and school students. The community also needs to understand the importance of upholding human rights.

"Several violations of human rights have occurred accidentally. I am sure that instances of human rights violations will reduce if awareness on such aspects is raised and becomes part of the culture of the people in all spheres of their life and the government," he noted.

(Reported by Hanni Sofia Soepardi/Uu.R029/INE/KR-BSR/F001)

Editor: Priyambodo RH
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