Garuda Astacita Nusantara Condemns Attack on Kontras Activist
Garuda Astacita Nusantara (GAN) has strongly condemned the attack against Kontras activist Andrie Yunus that occurred on Thursday, 12 March, in the Salemba area of Central Jakarta.
Chairman of the GAN Central Board Muhammad Burhanuddin, in a written statement, emphasised that violence against activists and citizens expressing their opinions cannot be justified in a democratic state that upholds the rule of law and human rights.
According to him, such action constitutes brutal and uncivilised violence and must be condemned by all segments of society. He assessed that such incidents should not be allowed to occur as they risk damaging the climate of democracy and freedom of speech in Indonesia.
“Every citizen has the right to express views and make legitimate criticism. Violence against those voicing public aspirations is an action that cannot be tolerated,” said Burhanuddin.
He also warned that such incidents could set a dangerous precedent for democratic life in Indonesia if not handled seriously. Attempts to silence critical voices, according to him, run counter to the spirit of national and state life that upholds openness, dialogue, and balance in overseeing government operations.
Further, GAN has urged law enforcement authorities to work professionally, transparently, and fairly in investigating the case. This includes not only identifying perpetrators in the field but also uncovering the possibility of intellectual actors behind the incident so that all responsible parties can be prosecuted in accordance with applicable legal provisions.
“Objective and professional law enforcement is crucial to maintaining public trust and ensuring that justice is truly upheld,” he asserted.
On the other hand, GAN has also invited all segments of society to exercise restraint and not be easily provoked by various circulating information. Burhanuddin believed that maintaining a conducive atmosphere and social stability is a shared responsibility for the continuation of peaceful national and state life.
He hopes the legal process can proceed smoothly, transparently, and accountably so that this incident does not create prolonged tension within society. The statement represents the official position of the Central Board of Garuda Astacita Nusantara over the incident of attack against Kontras activist that has attracted public attention.
Through this statement, GAN reaffirms its commitment to continue promoting a healthy democratic space, respecting freedom of speech, and supporting fair law enforcement for all parties.
President Prabowo Subianto has issued a direct order to Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo to conduct a thorough investigation into the attack on Kontras activist Andrie Yunus. The attack experienced by Andrie is suspected to be a carefully planned criminal act. A similar attack was previously experienced by former KPK investigator Novel Baswedan.