15 Feb 2024 | 06:52 AM UTC
Indonesia: Increased security measures and protests likely to continue nationwide in the aftermath of Feb. 14 general elections /update 2
Protests, increased security measures likely to continue in Indonesia in the aftermath of Feb. 14 general elections.
Increased security measures, protests, and associated disruptions are likely to continue nationwide in the aftermath of the Feb. 14 general elections. As of Feb. 15, Indonesian presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto and running mate Gibran Rakabuming Raka have claimed electoral victory after securing close to 60 percent of votes based on preliminary count - in past elections, preliminary count has served as a reliable indicator of the final results, which the General Elections Commission (KPU) is expected to release before March 20.
Related protests and demonstrations are likely to continue over the coming weeks; activists have called for a protest in front of the Presidential Palace in Jakarta15:00-17:00 Feb. 15 to denounce alleged past human rights abuses by Prabowo during the New Order era in the 1990s. Unannounced additional protests by human rights activists, as well as supporters of rival parties, are also possible. Potential gathering sites include prominent government buildings, political party offices, sports stadiums, public squares, and thoroughfares. Well-attended gatherings, particularly in Jakarta, will probably draw thousands of participants.
Isolated security incidents, such as small-scale explosions and violence, are possible until at least the official results are announced. Authorities reported instances of of isolated scuffles by supporters of rival legislative candidates in Puncak Jaya Regency, Central Papua, Feb. 14, causing injuries to at least 62 residents. Such occurrences are more likely to transpire in restive regions such as Aceh, East Java, Maluku, Papua, and Southeast Sulawesi.
Heightened security measures, including deployment of security personnel and interim security barricades and/or traffic diversions, will likely continue, especially in Jakarta and around government buildings. While most public events will likely pass off peacefully, clashes between police and activists, as well as between opposing rival groups, cannot be ruled out. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are highly likely during these events.
Exercise increased caution if operating in Indonesia through at least mid-March. Avoid all demonstrations as a standard precaution. Prepare for increased security measures such as road diversions around political party offices and rallies in the coming weeks; allow additional travel time to reach destinations. If unruly gatherings materialize, immediately leave the area and seek shelter at a safe, nongovernmental building. Confirm all business appointments and transport reservations in advance. Monitor local media for election-related event announcements. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
On Feb. 14, over 200 million eligible Indonesians voted for a new president, as well as members of the national assembly, regional governors, and legislative bodies. A preliminary count has put frontrunner Prabowo Subianto as the likely winner of the 2024 Presidential Election, garnering approximately 60 percent of votes, which puts him ahead of rivals Anies Baswedan (approximately 25 percent) and Ganjar Pranowo (approximately 16 percent).
