Pigai said demonstrations reflect the opinions, thoughts and feelings of citizens, including students, pupils, members of the public and community groups.
“Law enforcement must not apply an approach of excessive use of force or excessive use of power,” Pigai said at a news conference in Jakarta.
He urged police to take a progressive and dignified approach, relying on restorative justice when dealing with demonstrators who are only expressing aspirations.
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For protesters who are detained, Pigai stressed their basic rights must be upheld, including the right to worship, proper healthcare and other essential needs while in custody.
For those who violate the law, Pigai said enforcement should be carried out professionally and in line with Indonesian regulations.
Earlier, National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo reminded security personnel to safeguard public demonstrations while adhering to police operating standards.
He made the remarks during a dinner with 320 personnel from the Indonesian National Armed Forces and police in front of the House of Representatives building in South Jakarta on Monday.
“We are all obliged to secure the process while following legal regulations, respecting applicable laws, safeguarding public freedoms, upholding the values of the law and maintaining unity,” Listyo said in an official statement released Tuesday.
The police chief said officers have the authority to issue warnings if protests violate rules or laws.
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Translator: Agatha, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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