Police Interrogate Feri Amsari with 25 Questions Regarding Incitement Report

Constitutional law expert from Andalas University, Feri Amsari, was interrogated by the Metro Jaya Regional Police on Wednesday (3/6) concerning a report of alleged incitement. During the examination, which lasted from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM WIB, Feri was subjected to 25 questions in his capacity as the reported party.

Feri’s legal counsel, Yubi Haris, stated that the dozens of questions pertained to his client’s attendance at an event titled ‘Halal Bihalal: Before Observers are Silenced’ held at the Utan Kayu Community in East Jakarta. “The investigators began by asking whether Feri Amsari attended the halal bihalal event in Utan Kayu. Subsequent questions concerned who invited him, how he was invited, and who else was present,” Yubi told reporters.

He added that the police also questioned his role at the event, specifically why he delivered a speech or acted as a resource person. Yubi noted that Feri explained to investigators that the event was merely a ‘halal bihalal’ gathering and that he was requested by the host to say a few words. He further clarified that during a Q&A session, prompted by audience questions, Feri provided an explanation regarding the subject of impeachment.

Yubi revealed that Feri was reported by four individuals, including one from an NGO and three claiming to be students. During the interrogation, the legal team questioned the investigators regarding the evidence provided by the complainants, noting that the complainants themselves were not present at the event. “They reported to the Regional Police based on video snippets from social media. We believe these snippets cannot serve as valid evidence as they strip away the necessary context,” Yubi said.

He continued that the team used the opportunity to clarify the actual events and the substance of what Feri communicated during the gathering. Yubi expressed hope that Feri’s statements during the examination would provide investigators with the proper context. “Feri Amsari’s remarks are clearly part of the freedom of expression guaranteed by the Constitution, and there is no criminal offence of incitement under Article 246 of the Criminal Code as alleged by the complainants. Therefore, the investigators should terminate the legal process against Feri Amsari,” he concluded.

For context, the summons follows a report filed by four complainants alleging violations of Article 246 of the Criminal Code related to public incitement.