Gusdurian Network Condemns Attack on Andrie Yunus
The Gusdurian Network has condemned the attack on Kontras activist Andrie Yunus. The network views the caustic soda attack on Andrie not as a random incident but as a carefully premeditated act.
Alissa Wahid, Director of the Gusdurian Network, stated that Andrie is a symbol of resistance from civil society. He previously breached security during secret discussions of the military law amendments (TNI Law Revision) at a luxury hotel by the parliament.
Andrie also served as an expert witness in a lawsuit against the TNI Bill, which could potentially strengthen the military’s role during the Prabowo administration. Additionally, Andrie was part of a fact-finding team investigating cases of abductions and arrests of activists during the August 2025 demonstrations.
For these reasons, the Gusdurian Network views the attack as a threat to civil society. “Especially using violent methods constitutes a form of suppression of criticism and freedom of expression,” said Alissa in a press statement issued on Wednesday, 18 March 2026.
In a joint statement, the Gusdurian Network has urged President Prabowo Subianto to guarantee freedom of expression and protect every citizen from various forms of threats by investigating the case involving Andrie Yunus.
“Allowing the suppression of freedom of expression, particularly through violence, will narrow the space for democracy in Indonesia,” she added.
The Gusdurian Network subsequently called on law enforcement authorities to thoroughly investigate the case until they identify the perpetrator, and to prosecute those responsible through a transparent process that satisfies the demand for justice.
The network, comprising dozens of national figures, has invited all segments of society to continue monitoring the case. “Because ultimately, terror against human rights defenders is terror against society as a whole.”
Andrie Yunus was attacked with caustic soda whilst on Jalan Salemba I-Talang, Central Jakarta, on Thursday evening, 12 March 2026. He was sprayed with a corrosive chemical solution by two unknown individuals riding a motorcycle who approached from the opposite direction.
The caustic chemical solution hit the right side of Andrie’s body, including his eyes, face, chest, and hands. Part of his clothing melted from the contact with the corrosive liquid. Medical examination results showed that Andrie sustained serious burns covering 24 per cent of his body. He continues to receive treatment at the National Central General Hospital Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo (RSCM).