Rain at Bundaran HI Prompts Protesters to Disperse
JAKARTA — Protesters who had gathered in the Bundaran Hotel Indonesia (HI) area of Central Jakarta began dispersing on Wednesday (28 October 2026) evening after moderate rain fell in the area.
According to Republika’s observations, rain began around 7pm local time. Some protesters took shelter by the roadside, and as the rain continued, the crowd gradually dispersed.
By 7.50pm, the situation around Bundaran HI was calm. Roads that had been closed to traffic were reopened at around 8pm.
Earlier, protesters had remained in the Bundaran HI area until sunset. Some gathered around the Selamat Datang Monument, while others were held up on MH Thamrin Street, in front of the UOB building.
Republika observed that protesters who managed to reach Bundaran HI had come from the direction of the National Monument (Monas). Hundreds arrived by public transport, without being stopped by police.
The demonstration was initiated by several student groups under the name Komite Sadar. It was also attended by members of the public.
The protesters put forward at least five demands:
Declare a national disaster, bring responsible corporations to justice, and complete the integration of land governance.
Ensure the state budget serves the public interest and stop wasteful political spending disguised as populist programmes such as MBG and KDMP.
Reduce education costs, provide equitable access to basic services, and create quality jobs.
Stop the use of law to abuse power and eradicate corruption, collusion and nepotism.
Restore freedom of expression, bring human rights violators to justice, and end militarisation in civilian spaces.
The demands were framed as a call for the government to be held accountable for its public offices, political promises and constitutional responsibilities. The protesters urged the government to fulfil all of those commitments.