Indonesia: Public transportation disruptions in Jakarta ahead of President Widodo's inauguration October 20 /update 1

Event

The state-owned railway operator has announced disruptions at Palmerah Station in Jakarta as of 11:20 (local time) on Sunday, October 20, in anticipation of increased traffic in the area ahead of the inauguration of President Jokowi Widodo later in the day. The inauguration is due to take place at the parliament building, and transport authorities have closed or diverted several surrounding roads. Consequently, the operator has said that operations on the Rangkasbitung/Maja/Parungpanjang/Serpong line heading to Palmerah Station will instead terminate at Kebayoran Station in South Jakarta.

Heightened security measures, including the deployment of 30,000 military and security personnel, and increased checkpoints are expected in key areas across Jakarta. Public transportation disruptions and heavy traffic are expected in the capital the coming hours.

Context

President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo was elected for a second term with 55.5 percent of the vote in elections held in April. He has served as president since 2014.

Large protests erupted in Jakarta following the announcement of the election's official results on May 22 and a lawsuit was filed by presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto claiming fraud. During the protests 30 people were killed, 300 injured, 250 arrested, and social media platforms were banned for several days.

Following the attack on the country's security minister on October 10, police arrested 22 suspected militants and security measures ahead of the inauguration. This included banning demonstrations until October 20.

Advice

Individuals in Jakarta are advised to avoid all political events as a precaution, allow additional time to travel, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.