Indonesia: Increased security continues after Prabowo supporters cancel rally at Constitutional Court in Jakarta April 19 /update 1

Police will maintain increased security measures despite President-elect Prabowo Subianto calling on his supporters to call off a protest at the Constitutional Court in Central Jakarta, initially scheduled from 10:00 April 19. Rival supporters will likely continue to stage rallies April 19, although attendance will likely be in the dozens to hundreds.

Further action will occur on April 22, although the start time of the rally remains unclear. The action is part of a series of demonstrations that have occurred across Indonesia to denounce alleged electoral fraud committed by the Prabowo-Gibran pair in the 2024 General Elections; the Constitutional Court is expected to announce the findings of its investigation from 10:00 April 22. Organizers claim that one million supporters will be mobilized; while actual attendance will likely be lower, hundreds to thousands of people may still join the gathering.

Additional, unannounced rallies and counterprotests may occur at short notice. Previous similar demonstrations have occurred at the Arjuna Wijaya Horse Statue, General Elections Commission office, House of Representatives, and Presidential Palace. Other potential gathering sites include prominent government buildings, political party offices, sports stadiums, public squares, and thoroughfares.

Heightened security and localized transport and business disruptions are likely around the protest sites. Authorities typically increase deployment of security personnel to ensure order. Police could disperse protesters if they attempt to bypass security barriers. Activists may engage in acts of vandalism and arson, posing incidental risks to bystanders. Clashes between security forces, demonstrators, and rival activists are possible. Officials will likely erect barricades along Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat in both directions on April 19 and 22, prompting associated transport disruptions; alternative routes could face increased congestion. Activists are likely to march on or block roadways, exacerbating transport disruptions. Increased congestion and demand for public transport are also probable as a large number of attendees will reach and leave the venues.