Tension Erupts in Parliament Over MP's 'Circus' Remark Directed at Journalists

The Parliamentary Journalists Coordinator (KWP) has lodged a formal protest against remarks made by Deddy Sitorus, a member of the House of Representatives (DPR) Commission II from the PDIP faction, who allegedly described a situation as being ‘like a circus’. Deddy has since issued a clarification regarding his statements made during a parliamentary meeting.

The incident began on Thursday (30/7/<0xE2><0x80><0xAF>2026), while journalists were monitoring a Commission II meeting at the Senayan building in Jakarta. As Deputy Speaker of the DPR, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, entered the meeting room, journalists moved in to document his arrival. Shortly after, the sound of Deddy Sitorus saying ‘like a circus’ and ‘move upwards’ was heard.

Erwin Syahputra, Vice Chairman of Administration for the KWP, expressed deep offence, stating that the remark was perceived as an insult and harassment of the press. The KWP has issued a 24-hour ultimatum for Deddy Sitorus to issue a public apology, failing which they intend to report the matter to the House Ethics Council (MKD) and notify the PDIP leadership.

‘We feel insulted and demeaned by a member of the DPR… His statement that we journalists are like a circus mob is an extraordinary form of harassment,’ Syahputra stated during a press conference at the DPR.

However, Deddy Sitorus has vehemently denied targeting journalists. He maintains that his criticism was directed at the chaotic presence of technical experts (TA) and staff members who remained standing in the meeting room despite seating being provided on the balcony.

‘I protest the TAs and staff crowding inside when space has been provided on the balcony. Check the recording; did I mention journalists? Do not slander me!’ Deddy said when contacted. He further asserted that he felt no need to apologise as he did not target the press, but rather sought to maintain order during the meeting. He added that he would welcome a report to the Ethics Council, as he is confident that no evidence exists of him insulting the journalistic profession.