Banda Aceh – The government continues to accelerate rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts following the floods and landslides in Aceh. However, unfortunately, amidst this process, symbols of old conflicts have resurfaced, potentially disrupting stability and unity.
The Director of Merah Pusaka Strategic Indonesia (MPSI), Noor Azhari, deplored the raising of the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) flag amidst the dire post-disaster situation in Aceh. He firmly rejected the revival of this symbol.
“When people are grieving, displaced, and have lost their possessions, what is needed is assistance and solidarity, not separatist political symbols that can only provoke new unrest,” he said.
According to him, the momentum of a disaster should be a humanitarian space, not a stage for narcissistic demonstrations. Raising the GAM flag at a disaster site could distract authorities and volunteers while they are busy evacuating residents, distributing supplies, and ensuring the safety of others.
“The promotion of separatist symbols while the victims’ tears have not yet dried is clearly insensitive. It wounds the nation’s conscience. Our priority now is human lives, not political contestation,” Noor explained.
Noor urged security forces to take proportional and persuasive yet firm measures to maintain a conducive situation. He also advised that in a disaster situation, the priority should be solidarity and mutual assistance to victims, rather than anything else.
“Right now, Aceh needs helping hands, not divisive symbols. Humanity must be higher than ego and anything else,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Wiratmadinata, Secretary General of the Aceh NGO Forum, urged the people of Aceh to remain vigilant and not be provoked into political affairs by irresponsible parties. According to him, the government and the public must remain focused on post-disaster recovery efforts.
“Let’s not worsen the situation by participating in political actions with unclear agendas. The provocateurs, both at the political elite and on the ground, will ultimately profit,” Wira concluded.