Reported After Call to Topple Prabowo, Saiful Mujani Urges Criticism to be Met with Criticism

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com — Political analyst Saiful Mujani believes that differences of opinion should be responded to with criticism, not taken to the legal realm. He stated this after being reported to the Metro Jaya Police for alleged treason. “Just refute it, criticism against criticism. But it’s fine if they want to show more clearly that this country is becoming increasingly fascist,” Saiful said when confirmed on Thursday (9/4/2026). “Unless I have physically harmed someone else or deprived others of their freedom and rights,” he added. He also believes that law enforcement authorities should not get involved when citizens express opinions about the political situation. Nevertheless, Saiful said the report against him is a legitimate step in a democratic system. “A legitimate step. But since this is in the realm of civil society and in the form of attitudes and opinions, it should just be responded to,” he stated. Head of Public Relations at Metro Jaya Police, Kombes Pol Budi Hermanto, confirmed the existence of the report. He said it was filed on Wednesday, 8 April 2026, around 9:30 PM WIB. “Yes, it’s true, reported on Wednesday 8 April 2026 around 9:30 PM,” Budi said when confirmed on Thursday (9/4/2026). The report is recorded under number LP/B/2428/IV/2026/SPKT/POLDA METRO JAYA dated 8 April 2026. “Related to Article 246 of Law 1/2023. Reporter Robina Akbar from the East Jakarta Community Alliance,” Budi continued.