JAKARTA – The recent “Dark Indonesia” movement has disrupted national stability and has the potential to hinder development. In response to this, President Prabowo Subianto invited the entire community to remain optimistic and maintain order for the sake of the country’s survival. The President emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy democracy and not allowing such actions to damage national stability. “The President understands the movement, but continues to emphasize the importance of maintaining order and constructive democracy,” said IPB Rector, Arif Satria, who also conveyed the President’s views.
Arif Satria added that the President is very open to criticism and input, especially from academics. On the same occasion, he also explained that the President’s meeting with the rectors was not a form of intervention, but rather an effort to understand the government’s vision and policies directly. “This meeting is more of an opportunity for dialogue and understanding the steps taken by the government,” he added.
On the legislative side, Deputy Speaker of the DPR, Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal, also responded to the action by stating that criticism of the government is a natural thing in a democracy, but must be constructive and not damage the existing order. “The Prabowo administration has worked by responding to the demands of the people. Criticism needs to be delivered in the right way and in a constructive context,” explained Cucun.
He also rejected the call for the President’s impeachment that emerged during the demonstration. “The government has just started, and calls for impeachment without a clear basis will only worsen the political situation,” he said.
Meanwhile, Minister of State Secretary (Mensesneg) Prasetyo Hadi stated that the government still accepts the demands of the demonstrators and is open to dialogue with student representatives. “We are ready to discuss with students constructively in order to reach the best solution,” he said.
Prasetyo emphasized that freedom of speech is guaranteed by law, but must be accompanied by responsibility. “The police are asked to prioritize a persuasive approach, considering that the demonstrators are part of the nation’s next generation,” he continued.
The “Dark Indonesia” demonstration has caused unrest among the people, with the issues raised that should have been discussed through more constructive channels. The government continues to open space for dialogue in order to accommodate the aspirations of the people wisely, so that democracy can run well without sacrificing the stability and order of the country.
