Three Flyer Makers for Solo Demo Acquitted, Judge: Protected by Freedom of Expression
The Surakarta District Court (PN) acquitted three activists who created flyers calling for an action in Solo, previously charged in connection with unrest on 29 August last year. The verdict was read out during a hearing on Monday (30/3/2026) and was immediately met with celebrations from supporters in the courtroom.
The three defendants declared not guilty are Daffa Labidulloh Darmaji (21), a resident of Bumiharjo Village, Nguntoronadi, Wonogiri; Hanif Bagas Utama (26), a resident of Solo; and Bogi Setyo Bumo (27), a resident of Punung Village, Pacitan.
The panel of judges, chaired by Agus Darwanta with member judges Arif Budi Cahyono and Asmudi, stated that the three were not proven guilty of the first and second alternative charges related to allegations of provoking the action and unrest.
In its considerations, the panel of judges assessed that the distribution of flyers calling for a gathering in the Ngarsopuro area on 29 August 2025 via social media Instagram did indeed occur. However, this action was deemed a form of expressing aspirations and freedom of thought protected by human rights (HAM) and carried out for the public interest.
The panel of judges also assessed that the defendants had no intention of causing unrest. The planned action was described as a form of solidarity with similar activities in Jakarta through a candlelight vigil. The planned solidarity action in Ngarsopuro ultimately did not take place because the situation developed into unrest.
“Therefore, the defendants are acquitted of all charges, and the defendants are ordered to be released from Rutan detention immediately after this verdict is pronounced,” said Chief Judge Agus Darwanta when reading the verdict.
In addition to acquitting the defendants, the panel of judges also ordered the restoration of their honour and dignity. The evidence previously seized was returned, while the court costs were borne by the state with a nil value.
The acquittal verdict was immediately greeted with uproar by supporters filling the courtroom. They shouted victory, gave flowers to the defendants, and expressed appreciation to the panel of judges and the legal team.
Supporters viewed the verdict as a bold step in upholding humanitarian values, democracy, and freedom of HAM.
“Salam demokrasi, friends. The panel of judges’ decision is very brave, and has taken a stance for humanity, democracy, and HAM,” said Watub Toatubun from the Anti-Criminalisation Advocacy Coalition after the reading of the acquittal verdict for his three clients, who were referred to as political prisoners.