Vice President Gibran on Andrie Yunus Attack: Public Must Trust the Legal Process
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has called on the public to place their confidence in the legal process currently underway regarding the investigation into the acid attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS). Through statements from his special staff, the Vice President expressed deep concern over the attack on the human rights activist whilst reaffirming the government’s commitment to prosecuting the perpetrator according to law.
Special Staff to the Vice President Tina Talisa stated that the government views such violent acts as unjustifiable in a rule-of-law state that upholds democracy and human dignity.
“The government expresses profound concern over the acid attack incident that befell Andrie Yunus. Such violent acts cannot be justified in national and state life that upholds law, humanity, and democratic values,” said Tina in her statement on Monday (16 March).
She added that President Prabowo Subianto had issued clear instructions to law enforcement to investigate the case thoroughly.
“President Prabowo Subianto has given clear direction to law enforcement officials to investigate this matter comprehensively, professionally, transparently, and in accordance with applicable legal provisions,” she said.
According to Tina, the Vice President also placed serious emphasis on citizen safety and the importance of maintaining a healthy and open democratic space.
“Vice President Gibran Rakabuming expresses concern and deep regret over this incident, whilst reaffirming the importance of ensuring the safety of every citizen and maintaining a healthy and open democratic space,” she said.
She also stressed that the government would ensure the victim receives necessary medical treatment and recovery support.
Meanwhile, Special Staff to the Vice President Achmad Adhitya strongly condemned the acid attack on Andrie Yunus and affirmed that the state guarantees freedom of expression as part of democracy.
“I condemn the acid attack on Andrie Yunus. This should not happen because the state, following President Prabowo’s direction, guarantees freedom of expression and activities as part of democracy guaranteed by law,” said Achmad.
He stressed that the government would ensure the case is investigated thoroughly.
“The government will investigate this violent act comprehensively and ensure such incidents do not recur. Andrie Yunus deserves justice for the violence he has suffered,” he said.
A similar statement was also issued by Special Staff to the Vice President Suwardi, who characterised the attack as a cowardly act that threatens public safety.
“The spraying of dangerous chemical liquid on Andrie Yunus is a cowardly act that cannot be justified in a rule-of-law state and democracy. This incident is not merely violence but also a serious threat to public safety and confidence in government,” said Suwardi.
He believed that swift and transparent investigation was crucial to prevent public suspicion of the government from spreading.
“Accusations and public suspicion can easily be directed at the government as the administrator of the state. Therefore, swift, comprehensive, and transparent investigation is vital,” he said.
Meanwhile, another Special Staff to the Vice President, Nico Harjanto, called on law enforcement to move swiftly to identify the perpetrator and ensure the victim receives the best care.
“I strongly condemn the terrorist act against Andrie Yunus. My deep sympathies go to Andrie, his entire family, and the KontraS staff over this incident,” said Nico.
He also called on authorities to act firmly to demonstrate that the law protects all citizens.
“I urge law enforcement to act decisively and swiftly, demonstrate that the law in Indonesia is present to protect all citizens and provide security for us all,” he said.
Additionally, Nico urged the government to tighten oversight of the circulation of dangerous chemicals such as acid that are frequently used in various violent acts.
“I also call on relevant agencies to tighten control over the circulation of acid and other hazardous materials that are often used for crimes, street fights, and attacks on innocent citizens,” he said.
The Ministry of Human Rights (KemenHAM) has called on police to expedite their investigation into the acid attack on KontraS Deputy Coordinator Andrie Yunus.