LIN Calls for Peaceful August 27 Protest, Urges Government to Open Dialogue

JAKARTA, Aug. 26, 2026 — The National Investigation Agency (LIN) has called for a planned public protest on Aug. 27 to remain peaceful and not escalate into violence, damage to public facilities or disruptions to public activities.

Abdul Gofur, chairman of LIN's East Jakarta branch, said the right to freedom of expression was an important part of democracy and should be respected, while stressing that such rights must be exercised within the law and with respect for the rights of others.

"LIN respects the planned public expression of aspirations on Aug. 27, 2026, as part of democratic life. But democracy must not lose its ethical and legal boundaries," Gofur said in a statement on Wednesday.

He said protesters had the right to criticize the government and state institutions, but that such criticism should not involve violence, intimidation, damage to public property or actions that could endanger others.

LIN also urged the government and parliament not to view demonstrations solely as a security issue.

"Behind every protest there are aspirations that need to be heard and addressed openly," Gofur said.

He said dialogue between protesters, the government and parliament was needed to prevent political differences from developing into broader social conflict.

LIN hopes the Aug. 27 protest can provide an opportunity for communication between citizens and state institutions and allow criticism to be expressed openly, he said.

"We hope Aug. 27 will become a moment for dialogue, not confrontation. The state should not fear criticism, and society should not use freedom as an excuse to break the law," Gofur said.

He said the maturity of a democracy was measured not only by the ability of citizens to voice criticism, but also by the ability of the government and state institutions to respond openly and proportionately.

Gofur added that freedom of expression and public order should not be treated as competing interests as long as all sides respected the law and avoided actions that could heighten tensions.

The Aug. 27 protest is planned as an avenue for citizens to voice their concerns. Authorities face the challenge of ensuring the right to peaceful assembly while maintaining public security and allowing daily activities to continue. (Gus)