The National Human Rights Commission Issues an Ultimatum to Regional Governments: Don't Bow to Pressure from Intolerant Groups

Coordinator of Human Rights Enforcement Sub-Commission Komnas HAM RI Pramono Ubaid Tanthowi. (ANTARA/HO-Humas Komnas HAM)

PADANG - The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) of the Republic of Indonesia issued a number of recommendations to various parties as a follow-up to alleged acts of intolerance occurring in several regions in Indonesia.

"Komnas HAM's recommendations are addressed to the National Police (Polri), local governments, as well as community and religious leaders," said Pramono Ubaid Tanthowi, Coordinator of the Komnas HAM's Human Rights Enforcement Subcommission, in a written statement received in Padang on Tuesday, August 5.

Komnas HAM urged the National Police to immediately investigate and prosecute the perpetrators of persecution in a professional, transparent, and accountable manner, including in cases that occurred in Pemalang, Central Java, and Padang, West Sumatra.

Furthermore, authorities were asked to provide legal and psychological protection to victims and their families, and to increase human rights-based training for all levels in addressing issues of religious freedom and intolerance.

Komnas HAM recommended to local governments the importance of guaranteeing the right to education and religious freedom for all citizens without discrimination.

Regional governments were also urged to prioritize inclusive interfaith dialogue by strengthening the role of the Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB), and to resist pressure from intolerant groups.

"Regional governments must take firm action against actors who obstruct citizens' constitutional rights," Pramono emphasized.

Komnas HAM conveyed two important points to the public and religious leaders. First, prioritize the values of tolerance, humanity, and brotherhood in diversity, in line with human rights principles. Second, reject all forms of violence and intimidation in the name of religion.

As a democratic nation based on Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, Pramono said, Indonesia has a constitutional obligation to guarantee religious freedom and diversity.

"There is no place for intolerance and persecution in a state governed by the rule of law," he said.

Komnas HAM also opened communication with all parties to ensure the restoration of the rights of victims and prevent similar cases from recurring in the future.

"We call on "The entire community must maintain the spirit of diversity, strengthen tolerance, and reject all forms of violence and discrimination based on religion and belief," he concluded.