Pancasila Day Ceremony: PDI-P Secretary General Rejects Silencing of Critical Citizens

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - PDI-P Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto stated that his party is concerned about rising militarism in Indonesia. He argued that critical public scrutiny of government operations must not be met with repressive measures, as criticism is a vital component of democracy. ‘We also reject all forms of silencing critical societal components, as recently highlighted by civil society,’ Hasto said during his speech at the Pancasila Day commemoration ceremony at the PDI-P Party School in Jakarta on Monday, 1 June 2026. ‘Critical thinking is every Indonesian citizen’s political duty out of love for the nation. Criticism cannot be met with repression. Correct?’ Hasto said, met with a chorus of ‘Correct!’ from attendees. He added that criticism reflects public concern for the nation’s condition. ‘Therefore, democratic space must remain open to diverse public opinions and inputs,’ he explained. ‘This is a reflection of love for the country and nation.’ According to him, the humanistic values embedded in Pancasila reject all forms of power abuse. ‘Humanity always challenges oppression. This humanistic awakening underscores the importance of true freedom,’ he said. Hasto stressed that true freedom is not merely liberation from colonialism but also includes citizens’ rights to express opinions, associate, and assemble. ‘This must be a daily reality: freedom from fear, freedom of expression, association, and assembly,’ Hasto said. ‘This humanity opposes any abuse of state power by officials meant to protect the people,’ Hasto said. He added that PDI-P has learned from its time in government that criticism is essential for maintaining a healthy democracy. ‘Thus, PDI Perjuangan is the Indonesian Democratic Party. We must remember, from our experience in government, that criticism is vital for democracy,’ Hasto concluded.