Indonesian Council of Churches condemns acid attack on KontraS activist

Jakarta – The Indonesian Council of Churches (PGI) has condemned the acid attack against KontraS (Commission for Disappearances and Victims of Violence) activist Andrie Yunus that occurred on Thursday 13 March at approximately 23:37 Western Indonesian Time.

General Chair of PGI Pastor Jacklevyn Frits Manuputty expressed deep concern and moral outrage over the attack on the KontraS Deputy Coordinator.

“PGI believes that attacks, intimidation, and suppression of anyone defending human dignity cannot be justified under any circumstances. Violence of this nature undermines the foundations of democracy, threatens civil liberties, and spreads fear amongst society,” he said in Jakarta on Friday.

“PGI also urges the President to instruct the National Police Chief to investigate this incident thoroughly in a transparent, swift, and accountable manner, without exception and without intervention from any party,” he stated.

“PGI calls upon the government to guarantee protection for human rights activists, including witnesses and family members of victims, as well as comprehensive rehabilitation for the victim so that he can continue his humanitarian work without threat,” he added.

PGI also called upon all elements of society to stand together, reject violence, and preserve the space for democracy to thrive in Indonesia.