KSP Ready to Hear Public Concerns, Urges Orderly Protests

Presidential Chief of Staff (KSP) Listyo Sigit Prabowo responded to a public demonstration taking place in Jakarta today, stressing that the right to express opinions is guaranteed by law. “The rules governing freedom of expression in public are set out in Law No. 9 of 1998. People are free to exercise that right in accordance with the regulations; the government and the law provide room for it,” Listyo told reporters on Wednesday (28 October 2026).

However, Listyo urged demonstrators not to be provoked and to safeguard the national interest. “The demonstration must be conducted in an orderly manner, respect the rights of others, and avoid being easily provoked or resorting to violence. The national interest must be protected,” he added.

Listyo also said the government was ready to hear the concerns and demands raised by the public. He said the demonstration, held on Youth Pledge Day, should take place in a spirit of unity.

“The authorities will facilitate peaceful demonstrations. The KSP, representing the government, is ready to hear concerns from student representatives and other protest representatives,” Listyo said.

“Today is also the anniversary of the Youth Pledge, a moment when we must uphold the spirit of unity and continue to nurture it together as we build the nation,” he added.

The demonstration was held near the Welcome Statue at the HI Roundabout in Central Jakarta this afternoon. Protesters displayed banners and placards and delivered speeches.

According to detikcom’s observation at the scene, the demonstrators had gathered at the roundabout by around 3pm on Wednesday (28 October). They arrived on foot from different directions, while some travelled by public minibus.

The participants raised concerns on several issues, including forest and land fires. They also expressed their views through banners and placards.