Jakarta — President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto firmly declared that he would not hesitate to stand with the people and confront both mafia networks and corruptors.
He stated that law enforcement officers who act improperly while handling public demonstrations will be held accountable according to regulations. At the same time, he added, the government has begun to identify groups suspected of instigating riots during recent protests.
“So, all state apparatus will investigate who is responsible. I suspect we already have some indications, and we will not hesitate. I will not hesitate to defend the people. I will confront the mafia—no matter how powerful they are—on behalf of the people. I am determined to eradicate corruption. However strong they may be, by God, I will not retreat even a single step. I am confident the people stand with me,” Prabowo said at the National Police Hospital (RS Polri) in Kramat Jati, East Jakarta, on Monday (Sept. 1), after visiting civilians and police officers injured during the unrest.
The President noted that several victims had sustained serious injuries from violent acts committed by certain individuals.
Prabowo emphasized that demonstrations and freedom of expression are rights guaranteed to every citizen by law. However, he observed that in recent times such expressions have been accompanied by acts of violence, including the burning of the national parliament building (DPR RI) as well as several provincial and regional legislative offices.
He added that he had received reports of trucks carrying firecrackers to certain protest locations.
“This shows the intention was not to voice opinions. The intention was to incite chaos, disrupt the lives of the people, and undermine national development efforts aimed at eradicating poverty,” he stressed.
Expressing concern, Prabowo vowed to take firm action against all forms of violence. “I was elected by the people, I carry the people’s mandate, and I have sworn to uphold the Constitution—and I will carry it out,” the President said.
