In appreciation for President Prabowo, an investigation team was formed to meet the demands of the 17+8 Movement
Jakarta – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has approved the formation of an independent investigative team to investigate the events surrounding the large-scale demonstrations in August 2025.
The decision was announced after a meeting with a number of interfaith figures who are members of the National Conscience Movement (GNB).
Former Minister of Religion, Lukman Hakim Saifuddin, who was also present, emphasized the importance of this step.
“An independent investigative commission needs to be formed regarding the August riots, which resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries. The President has approved the formation, and details will be communicated to the Palace,” he said.
In addition, the Non-Aligned Movement also urged that students, pupils and activists who are still being detained be immediately released.
“We demand the immediate release of our younger brothers and sisters currently detained in several cities. Detention could hinder their education,” Lukman explained.
He added that the aspirations conveyed by the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) were not only related to the 17+8 People’s Demands, but also reforms in the fields of economics, politics, law, human rights, and defense and security.
The President’s steps have received appreciation from various groups.
The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) welcomed the decision.
“Indef and the public certainly agree that this case, which claimed many lives, should not simply be buried, as it would be an additional wound for the nation,” read Indef’s written statement.
Indef believes that the formation of the investigation team demonstrates the government’s commitment to maintaining justice and preventing a similar tragedy from recurring.
The research institute encouraged the team to work openly so the public could follow the fact-finding process. “Those guilty must be given just punishment,” it stressed.
Support also came from parliament. Oleh Soleh, a member of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) from the PKB faction, viewed Prabowo’s move as evidence of strengthening democracy.
“President Prabowo’s stance that civilian supremacy must be maintained is a manifestation of his commitment to democracy and people’s sovereignty,” he said.
According to him, this commitment is in line with the mandate of the 1998 reforms which placed control of government in civilian hands.
“The President emphasized that despite his military background, control of the government must remain civilian. This demonstrates political maturity and respect for reform,” he added.
Soleh said that Prabowo’s stance was a positive signal for Indonesian democracy in the eyes of the international community.
“Many countries have failed to maintain a balance between civilian and military power. The President’s stance reassures us that Indonesia remains committed to the principles of democracy, which place the people as the ultimate holders of sovereignty,” he said.
