“As these demands come from the people, the government, mandated by the people, must respond accordingly. It cannot ignore their aspirations,” he said in Jakarta on Thursday.
On legal and human rights issues under his purview, Yusril pledged that the government will enforce the law fairly, transparently, and with full respect for human rights.
Acting on President Prabowo Subianto’s instructions, he said law enforcement agencies have been ordered to take firm legal action against anyone violating the law.
Yusril emphasized that peaceful protestors will not be disturbed, as public demonstrations are a fundamental right. However, those committing crimes such as arson, vandalism, looting, or incitement will face strict legal consequences.
He stressed that anyone suspected of wrongdoing will still have their rights respected.
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“They must be examined according to due process, have access to legal counsel, and be treated as innocent until proven guilty,” he said.
If law enforcement officers violate these principles, Yusril added, they too will be held accountable under the law.
To ensure fair and transparent law enforcement, his ministry is coordinating with all relevant agencies.
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has also formed a monitoring team to oversee police actions and ensure compliance with human rights norms, he said.
The ministry is granting full access to the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) to monitor protests, collect evidence, and receive public complaints of possible rights abuses during demonstrations.
Yusril acknowledged the protests had drawn international attention, including from the UN Human Rights Office in Geneva.
However, he reaffirmed that Indonesia, as a democracy, guarantees the right to peaceful protest.
“Peaceful demonstrators, including students, are protected. Only those who break the law will face action,” he said.
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Translator: Agatha, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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