Deddy Sitorus Issues Six-Point Clarification Over 'Like a Circus' Remark in Parliament
House of Representatives (DPR) Commission II member Deddy Yevri Sitorus has denied accusations that he insulted the journalistic profession during a commission meeting. Deddy stated that his remark about the situation being ‘like a circus’ was not aimed at journalists.
Responding to the statement by the Parliament Press Corps (KWP) coordinator regarding the alleged insult, Deddy said he felt the need to issue a clarification. ‘I respect the profession of journalists and their role as an important pillar of democratic life. Therefore, I deeply regret the emergence of accusations that I insulted the journalistic profession, especially since these accusations were conveyed to the public without prior confirmation or clarification to me,’ Deddy told reporters on Thursday (30/7/2026).
He outlined six points regarding the ‘like a circus’ remark. Firstly, he stressed that the accusations did not match what he actually said. Secondly, he explained that his full statement during the meeting was: ‘Chairman, please bring the room to order, many people are standing here, even though there is a balcony room above. We are already like a circus here.’ He insisted the sentence clearly referred to the situation in the meeting room, which at the time was filled with people crowding and standing in the middle of the room while the meeting was in progress, and was not directed at journalists or any specific group or individual.
Thirdly, Deddy asserted that he did not prevent journalists from covering the event, noting that the working meeting at Commission II with the government was open and could be attended by the press and the public. Fourthly, he expressed hope that every piece of information conveyed to the public would be based on verified facts and preceded by an effort to confirm with the relevant party to avoid misunderstandings. Fifthly, he stated that if there was indeed an error in conveying information regarding this incident, he hoped it could be corrected to the public as a form of shared responsibility in maintaining information accuracy.
In his sixth point, Deddy conveyed his appreciation for journalistic work and his hope that the good relationship between DPR members and the press as a pillar of democracy would always be maintained. He added that differences of opinion or misunderstandings should be resolved through good communication while upholding ethics, professionalism, and journalistic principles that prioritise accuracy, verification, and balance.
Deddy stated he was ready to provide clarification through the Press Council if there were still doubts regarding his statement. However, he emphasised that he never intended to insult journalists. ‘If there are doubts about the information I have conveyed, I state that I am ready to provide clarification through the Press Council. However, I emphasise that there was never any intention or words from me that could be assumed as a form of belittling or insulting the journalistic profession,’ he said.
The incident began when journalists were monitoring the Commission II meeting in front of the meeting room at the Senayan parliamentary complex in Jakarta. Deputy Speaker of the DPR, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, was seen approaching the meeting room. Journalists documented Dasco’s arrival, and when the previously closed door opened for him to enter, reporters immediately followed him in. Shortly after, Deddy Sitorus was heard saying ‘like a circus’ and ‘go upstairs’. The Parliament Press Corps objected to the statement, with KWP Deputy Chair for Administration Erwin Syahputra saying the corps felt insulted and demeaned, and giving Deddy Sitorus 24 hours to issue a public apology.