Indonesia: Unionized workers to protest in Jakarta Aug. 22 and 23

Activists from several labor organizations led by the Indonesian Trade Union Confederation (KSPI) will hold rallies outside the parliamentary building (DPR) in Jakarta Aug. 22, and near the General Election Commission (KPU) office from 09:00 Aug. 23. A few thousand participants are likely to gather each day through late afternoon. The action is to denounce alleged attempts by lawmakers to circumvent new rules issued by the Constitutional Court for regional head elections. Unannounced marches - including by other like-minded groups - to the Constitutional Court, State Palace, and Merdeka Square cannot be ruled out.

Increased security measures will likely occur around protest sites, including heightened deployment of security personnel and imposition of traffic restrictions such as security cordons, diversions, and road closures. Minor scuffles are possible, especially if police attempt to disperse demonstrators trying to bypass security barriers. Traffic disruptions are likely near rally sites, particularly along Jalan Imam Bonjol and Jalan Jenderal Gatot Subroto, especially if activists block or march on roads.