His statement came in response to social media footage showing him issuing directives to officers.
“The orders are clear. SOPs are in place, legal regulations exist, and everything will be carried out within the established framework,” Listyo told reporters after attending the Cabinet Plenary Meeting at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Sunday.
While he did not elaborate further, Listyo reiterated that his instructions align with existing protocols and legal standards.
He emphasized that demonstrations are a constitutional right, as protected under Law No. 9 of 1998 on the Freedom to Express Opinions in Public. However, he stressed that protests must remain peaceful and within legal bounds.
“Officers are obliged to safeguard peaceful demonstrations. But if there is destruction or criminal activity, there will be consequences,” he said.
Listyo cited recent incidents involving fires, vandalism of public facilities, and attacks on headquarters as examples of unlawful conduct that no longer qualify as legitimate public expression.
He concluded by underscoring that regulations on demonstrations are not meant to restrict civil liberties, but to strike a balance between individual rights and public order.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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