Indonesia: Village council members plan to demonstrate outside the State Palace in Jakarta Feb. 16

Event

The Association of Indonesian Village Consultative Council Members has called for a demonstration outside the State Palace in Jakarta Feb. 16. Supporters are calling for amendments to the Village Law and better welfare benefits for council members, among other issues. Organizers did not specify a start time for the action. Hundreds of people could attend the protest. Gatherings are also possible at the House of Representatives (DPR) and Arjuna Wijaya Horse Statue.

Heightened security measures, including roadblocks and cordons, are probable at the State Palace and surrounding areas Feb. 16. Localized traffic and business disruptions are possible during the action, especially if activists occupy nearby roads. Traffic disruptions may occur along Medan Merdeka Barat and Medan Merdeka Utara roads. While the protest will likely pass off peacefully, clashes are possible if officials forcibly disperse the demonstrators.

Advice

Avoid the protest site Jan. 14 due to possible clashes. Plan for localized traffic and business disruptions. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernmental building. Heed all official security and transport advisories.