Minister of Human Rights Condemns Alleged Violence Against KontraS Activist

Jakarta — Indonesia’s Minister of Human Rights Natalius Pigai has condemned the alleged violent attack against activist Andrie Yunus from the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS).

Speaking at the Presidential Complex in Jakarta on Friday, Pigai stressed that the state must not permit thuggery or violence against anyone, including activists and civil society groups.

“I have condemned this and will not allow thuggery to exist in this country,” he said.

Pigai emphasised that Indonesia is a nation that upholds peace and security, and therefore all forms of violence are unjustifiable. He stated that differences of opinion should be resolved through peaceful and democratic means, not through violent actions.

“This is a peaceful and secure nation and we must not resort to violence, much less attacks against the Indonesian people,” he said.

Pigai noted that democracy in Indonesia continues to develop positively, describing it as experiencing a “surplus of democracy”. He highlighted the importance of civil society organisations as integral components of the nation’s governance systems, serving as mechanisms for control and balance.

The Minister expressed concern over the incident affecting the activist and stressed that such occurrences must not be repeated.

“I speak on behalf of the government, and I am deeply concerned about this incident and it must not happen again,” he said.

The Ministry of Human Rights has indicated its readiness to provide monitoring and support to the victim. Pigai also expressed willingness to visit the victim if still undergoing medical treatment, pending confirmation of the victim’s location and condition.

The attack on Andrie Yunus occurred following his participation in a podcast recording session at the offices of the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI). According to reports, the victim sustained burn injuries to multiple parts of his body from the corrosive liquid attack and is currently receiving medical treatment.