Indonesian Groups Condemn Riots, Urge President Prabowo to Address Public Concerns
Jakarta, Indonesia – September 14, 2025 – Following recent unrest stemming from demonstrations, the Indonesian People’s Solidarity Alliance (ASRI) and the Indonesian National Women’s Coalition (KNPRI) have issued a strong condemnation of the violence and called on President Prabowo Subianto to swiftly address the underlying issues fueling public discontent.
The groups, comprised of Indonesian students and youth, emphasized that while freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly are constitutionally protected, demonstrations must be conducted responsibly and avoid anarchy.
“All forms of anarchism, vandalism, and attempts to clash with police and the military only harm the people, damage the image of legitimate struggle, and undermine the spirit of democracy,” stated Fikri, a coordinator for ASRI and KNPRI, during a press conference in Central Jakarta on Saturday. “It was a despicable and barbaric act.”
ASRI and KNPRI are urging President Subianto, who recently received a mandate from the Indonesian people, to take decisive action to restore order and address the root causes of the protests. They expressed confidence in his ability to ensure the security, safety, and prosperity of all Indonesians.
Beyond a call for calm, the organizations are demanding concrete responses from the government to public grievances. They stressed the need for swift, precise, and clear resolutions, moving beyond mere discussion.
“We ask that freedom of expression be guaranteed by the constitution, without any pressure, criminalization, or silencing of critical voices,” Fikri added. “We also demand fair, obvious, and selective law enforcement, including a thorough examination into those who instigated the riots and harmed the Indonesian people.”
The statement underscores a growing tension between the exercise of democratic rights and the maintenance of public order in Indonesia. ASRI and KNPRI’s emphasis on peaceful and lawful protest highlights a desire to channel public frustration into constructive dialog and meaningful change.
Keywords: Indonesia, Jakarta, Protests, Riots, Prabowo Subianto, ASRI, KNPRI, Freedom of Speech, Democracy, Law Enforcement, Political Unrest.