Inaugurating PWI LKBPH Management, Hendry Ch Bangun: To Help And Defend Persecuted Journalists

The inauguration of the Central PWI Aid and Law Enforcement Consultant Institute (LKBPH) at the Press Building, Jakarta, Friday, September 13. (Ist)

JAKARTA The General Chairperson (Ketum) of the Central PWI Hendry Ch Bangun said that the Legal Aid and Enforcement Consultant Institute (LKBPH) was established to ensure that journalists who experience violence and criminalization receive legal assistance fairly and evenly.

He said this when confirming the Central PWI LKBPH at the Press Building, Jakarta, Friday, September 13,

"The Central PWI LKBPH was established to assist and defend journalists who were persecuted, become victims of violence, or face legal pressure. This is part of our efforts to uphold press freedom," said Hendry in his remarks.

He said LKBPH led by HM Untung Kurniadi would be at the forefront of overseeing the legal process involving journalists.

This institution, he said, was also strengthened by senior advocate Otto Cornelis Kaligis alias OC Kaligis and former high-ranking police officer Inspector General Pol (Ret.) Ronny Franky Sompie in carrying out his mission.

Furthermore, Hendry reminded that ahead of the 2024 Pilkada, the challenges for journalists will be even greater, especially in the face of potential verbal and physical violence.

"We must be ready to face various challenges, especially during the elections later, where violence against journalists can increase. LKBPH must dare to take steps to protect journalists. I am proud to be able to inaugurate this team," he said.

The head of the Central PWI LKBPH, HM Untung Kurniadi, added that LKBPH had actively accompanied a number of cases of violence that befell journalists even before the official inauguration.

"We have worked, accompanied several cases experienced by journalists, and also provided legal consultations for them. Journalists who face legal cases can apply for power without fees to LKBPH," said Untung.