TNI chief warns against protests

TNI chief warns against protests

JAKARTA: Indonesian Military (TNI) chief Gen. Endriartono Sutarto on Saturday warned the public against organising mass protests during the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Annual Sesssion starting Aug. 1.

"The Annual Session must proceed as expected. Let us not organize mass protests," Endriartono said after attending a meeting at the State Palace.

He said the Indonesian military was ready to help police safeguard the session any time it was needed.

"We are ready for unexpected things. But we hope they will not happen," he said.

He also urged demonstrators not to force themselves into the legislative building compound during the session.

"If they do so, they will undoubtedly get involved in physical clashes (with security personnel). Therefore, they should comply with the existing rules," he said. --Antara