Affirms Police Must Be Humanist In Handling Demonstrators, MUI: Demonstrations Are Guaranteed By Law

JAKARTA - Deputy Chairperson of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) Anwar Abbas emphasized that the security forces, especially the police, should prioritize a humanist approach and not act excessively in dealing with mass actions.

"To the security forces, we urge the police not to do excessive things, thus causing casualties as happened before," said Anwar Abbas in Jakarta, Friday, quoted by Antara.

He emphasized that demonstrations are rights guaranteed by law, so that all parties, including law enforcement officials, must respect them.

"Remember that holding demonstrations is guaranteed by law. Therefore, all parties must respect it, especially the security forces," said Anwar Abbas.

Meanwhile, to the mass action, he emphasized the importance of orderly and peaceful demonstrations. Buya Anwar reminded the demonstrators not to take anarchic actions or damage public facilities.

"The MUI urges those who will protest not to do things that disturb public peace and order. Please hold demonstrations in an orderly and non-destructive or anarchist manner," said Anwar.

Previously, MUI Chairman Anwar Iskandar expressed his deep sorrow for the death of an online motorcycle taxi driver (ojol) named Affan Kurniawan being run over by a Brimob tactical vehicle that secured the demonstration on Thursday, August 29 evening.

"Innalillahi wainnailaihirojiun, may the late Affan get the magfirah of Allah SWT and the bereaved family get the gift of sincerity and patience," said Anwar.

Kiai Anwar regretted the death toll in a demonstration held by thousands of labor activists and all elements of society in front of the DPR-RI Building, Senayan, Jakarta.

Kiai Anwar asked firmly that the perpetrators be severely punished according to the legal process by the legal apparatus.