The Rector of Bogor Agricultural University (IPB) Arif Satria asked students to demonstrate in an orderly manner even though freedom of expression in Indonesia is guaranteed by the 1945 Constitution (UUD 1945).
“In principle, freedom of expression is guaranteed by law. I hope that this aspiration will be conveyed in an orderly manner,” said Satria in a written statement received in Jakarta on Sunday.
As educated people, students must have a polite way of expressing their aspirations, said Satria, who concurrently leads the Indonesian Muslim Intellectuals Association.
“Of course (they) must maintain order and not be provoked,” he said.
Based on previous reports, Student Executive Board (BEM SI) across Indonesia will demonstrate simultaneously in a number of cities to voice their rejection of postponing the 2024 parliamentary and presidential elections, extending the term of office of the president, and rejecting fuel price hike.
President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has conveyed to the ranks of the ministers and heads of non-ministerial institutions to no longer raise the issues of postponing elections or extending the presidential term.
Instead, the President asked the state to be present in the midst of Indonesian people’s economic difficulties due to rising food and energy prices following the Russian-Ukrainian war.
The presence of the state can be demonstrated by providing various direct cash assistance (BLT) to maintain people’s purchasing power.
Source: Antara News