Saiful Mujani's Legal Team Describes Incitement Allegations as Absurd

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The legal counsel for academic Saiful Mujani, Todung Mulya Lubis, has assessed the incitement charges brought against his client as absurd and a bad precedent for freedom of expression in Indonesia.

“Mr Saiful has been asked to provide clarification regarding the Halal bi Halal event that took place some time ago. He is accused of violating Articles 246 of both the old and new Criminal Code regarding incitement. This article is absurd to me. I do not know who was incited, who feels incited, or what actions have been taken by those allegedly incited,” Todung stated in Jakarta on Thursday.

While deeming the allegations baseless, he emphasised that his team respects the legal process and will comply with police summons. However, he expressed hope that once the clarification process is complete, the police will immediately drop the case.

According to Todung, the critical opinions expressed by Saiful Mujani are part of the human rights protected by the 1945 Constitution. “Being a professor involves more than just teaching in a classroom; it involves voicing the truth. He is not seeking office. Therefore, no matter how critical an opinion may be, it must not be criminalised,” said Todung.

Meanwhile, academic Saiful Mujani reaffirmed his commitment to being cooperative and adhering to all applicable legal procedures within the police force. “I have stated previously that if information is required from me or if I am summoned by the authorities, I will certainly attend, and I am here now to fulfil my legal obligation,” Saiful asserted.

He further viewed the issue not merely as a personal matter, but as a test for civil liberties and democracy in Indonesia, particularly for the academic and activist communities. “I am concerned that if critical voices are criminalised again, it does not just affect me, but our community of academics, public intellectuals, and activists who are committed to national values,” Saiful remarked.