Geothermal Project Rejecting Activists In Flores Found Dead Hanging, DPR: Completely Investigate

JAKARTA - Member of Commission IV DPR Daniel Johan highlighted the death of a young activist from East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Vian Ruma (30), who is known to be active in the geothermal rejection movement in his area.

Daniel asked the police and the local government (Pemda) to immediately reveal the case of Vian's death clearly.

"We urge the central government, law enforcement officials, and local governments to immediately thoroughly investigate this case in a transparent manner, so as not to cause speculation that could widen the distance between the state and the people," Daniel told reporters at the DPR building, Tuesday, September 9.

Daniel assessed that Vian's death adds to the long list of activists who have died. Therefore, he reminded the importance of protecting environmental activists.

"This case not only concerns the loss of the life of a nation's child, but also raises a big question mark regarding the protection of local communities and environmental activists who fight for the sustainability of land and natural resources in their territory," said Daniel.

Daniel emphasized that every development, including the development of renewable energy such as geothermal, must be placed in a sustainable framework that respects local wisdom, the safety of citizens, and ecosystem sustainability.

"There should be no practice of intimidation, violence, or criminalization of the voices of the people who are critical of strategic projects," he said.

Daniel also emphasized the importance of open dialogue in every energy development plan, including geothermal. This, said Daniel, is so that people do not feel marginalized and their rights remain guaranteed.

"This tragedy should be a momentum for all parties to strengthen commitment to protecting environmental activists, ensure meaningful public participation," he said.

"As well as building green developments that really favor the people and preserve Indonesia's nature," concluded Daniel.

As reported, Vian Ruma (30), an activist who was active in the movement to reject the geothermal project on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, was found dead hanging in a plantation center in Tonggo Village, Nangaroro District, Nagekeo Regency on Friday, September 5.

At the location, his motorbike was also found parked outside the hut and a cell phone that was lying not far from the victim's position. The victim has been buried in his hometown in Ngera Village, Central Keo District, Nagekeo Regency, Saturday, September 6.

The family asked the police to investigate Vian's death because it was considered that there were irregularities in the death of the young NTT activist. For example, the rope that was wrapped around the victim's neck was a shoe strap. Likewise, the position of the victim's feet that touched the floor. If in that condition, the victim could not have died.

At the scene of the incident, bloodstains were also found. This finding further strengthens the family's confidence that the victim was suspected of having violence.