10 Dec 2020 | 07:20 AM UTC
Indonesia: Islamist activists likely to stage protests nationwide through mid-December after police named cleric as suspect for health rule violations
Islamist activists likely to gather across Indonesia through mid-December, after police named cleric as suspect for health rule breaches.
Event
Islamist activists, especially members of the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI), will likely stage protests through mid-December to denounce the police's Dec. 10 decision to name cleric Rizieq Shihab as a suspect for alleged coronavirus disease (COVID-19) health protocol violations. The largest protests will probably occur in Jakarta, especially at FPI's headquarters in Petamburan, Tanah Abang, and outside the Jakarta Metro Police (Polda Metro Jaya). Smaller demonstrations will likely occur at police offices, government buildings, and popular protest sites in other cities nationwide, including Bandung, Makassar, Medan, and Surabaya. Hundreds to thousands of people may participate in any gathering.
Authorities will almost certainly increase security, including erecting roadblocks and security cordons, at any protest sites. Localized road closures and business disruptions are likely during any gathering, especially if activists occupy or blockade any streets. Groups that oppose FPI and Shihab may stage counterrallies near any demonstrations. Clashes between protesters and security forces or between opposing groups of activists are possible. Mass arrests may occur if security forces consider any demonstrator to violate COVID-19 restrictions.
Context
Officials claim the health rule breaches occurred during a Nov. 14 event that Shihab organized at FPI's headquarters in Jakarta. The police's announcement came days after a Dec. 7 incident in which police officers shot and killed six alleged FPI members. FPI activists claim that authorities are unfairly processing the case against Shihab without also prosecuting other instances of health control breaches in Indonesia, including during local election campaigns. Various civic groups have held demonstrations against FPI and Shihab, claiming that the FPI is not tolerant of other religions and does not adhere to COVID-19 health protocols.
Advice
Avoid any protest sites and their surrounding areas due to increased security measures and possible clashes. Plan for localized transport and business disruptions. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a non-government building. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
