Unionists walk free

Unionists walk free

JAKARTA: The Tangerang District Court declared two labor
activists, Sofyan Bedot and Surjito, innocent of antisocial
behavior on Monday.

Sofyan and Surjito charged under Article 335 of the Criminal
Code after a heated discussion with representatives of PT Dwi
Naga Sakti Abadi, producer of Homyped sandals and shoes. The men
had demanded the company increase the workers' meal allowance
from Rp 1,250 (US cents 12) to Rp 2,500.

PT Dwi Naga Sakti Abadi later fired 35 workers who were labor
union members, citing efficiency measures. It also reportedly
instructed its security officers to convince its employees to
quit the union.

The head of Jakarta Legal Aid Institute's labor division, Rita
Olivia, said in a media release that the institute hailed the
verdict, saying it was proof that there was still justice for
workers.

Earlier this month, labor activist Hamdani was sentenced to
two months and 14 days in prison after being accused of stealing
a pair of reject sandals. -- JP