Ban on demonstrations

Ban on demonstrations

A law on demonstrations has not been devised, but in West Java
all forms of street demonstrations are banned. The regional
military command has taken stern measures against such actions.

The West Java Military Commander has banned all street
demonstrations for fear that they could lead to rioting and
violence. According to the commander, aspirations should be
channeled through the right institution. He apparently doesn't
want the recent Medan demonstrations-turned-riots to be repeated
in Bandung.

As expected, the ban has prompted reactions. Some dismiss it
as arrogance from the powers that be, which is contrary to the
atmosphere of openness. Others consider the measure appropriate
and logical, because it is not only for the sake of security but
also serves social-political interests.

In this context, both sides should adopt a mature attitude.
The demonstrators, on the one hand, should do everything to avoid
being dragged into violence, and the authorities, on the other,
should avoid using harsh measures when dealing with
demonstrators.

-- Republika, Jakarta