FWK Condemns Red and White Decreases in Aceh, Asking Police to Investigate Perpetrators

FWK condemned the lowering of the Red and White flag and the destruction of the Garuda Pancasila emblem in Banda Aceh, Saturday, August 15. (AI illustration)

JAKARTA - The National Journalists Forum or FWK condemned the lowering of the Red and White flag and the destruction of the Garuda Pancasila emblem in Banda Aceh, Saturday, August 15. FWK asked the authorities to investigate and prosecute the parties involved.

FWK National Coordinator Raja Parlindungan Pane said the incident occurred after a joint prayer commemorating the 21st anniversary of the Aceh Peace at the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque.

According to FWK's statement, a number of people raised the flag of the Free Aceh Movement or GAM after lowering the Red and White. FWK also said that the Garuda Pancasila emblem was lowered and trampled on the Aceh Governor's Palace.

"Their actions have demeaned, insulted the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, the Indonesian nation, and the Indonesian people in general," Raja said in his statement, Sunday, August 16.

FWK asked the police and related authorities to act firmly and process the perpetrators in accordance with applicable laws.

FWK founder Hendry Ch Bangun said that the public has the right to express criticism and dissatisfaction with the government and state officials. However, according to Hendry, the delivery of aspirations should not be done by damaging the state emblem.

"Lowering the Red and White flag that is raised legally in the right place, then harassing it, then damaging and removing it from its place and trampling on the Garuda Pancasila state emblem, hurting the pride of the Indonesian people," said Hendry.

FWK Secretary Budi Nugraha expressed a similar view.

"We can be disappointed with the government. But, do not destroy and insult the symbols of our country," he said.

Budi meminta tindakan yang dapat memicu perpecahan di masyarakat dihindari.

Raja also asked the authorities not to only prioritize enforcement. The government, according to Raja, needs to hear the causes of the emergence of disappointment in the community.

"If there is disappointment with the government, please convey it through the mechanisms that have been regulated in the law. The government must also listen to the people's complaints," he said.

He assessed that a persuasive approach was still needed so that the root of the problem could be known and a solution sought.