Indonesia: Ongoing student-led protest reported in Jakarta October 17

Event

On Thursday, October 17, around 1000 students gathered at 13:00 (local time) in the national monument area of central Jakarta. The rally, scheduled by the National Association of University Student Executive Bodies (BEM-SI), is staged to denounce a government decision issued on Tuesday, October 15, to restrict protests ahead of the presidential inauguration on Sunday, October 20.

Authorities allowed the protest but warned they would disperse crowds if the rally turned violent. Clashes between police and protesters cannot, therefore, be ruled out. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are likely around the demonstration site.

Further related protests are possible despite the restriction, ahead of the presidential inauguration.

Advice

Individuals in Jakarta are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.