BEM UI to Hold Follow-Up Protest Despite TNI, Police Blockade

BEM UI Unites for Continued Protest Amid TNI and Police Obstacles

BEM UI to Hold Follow Up Protest - Jakarta, Tempo.CO — Despite facing significant resistance from the Indonesian Military (TNI) and police forces, the Executive Board of the University of Indonesia's Student Senate (BEM UI) has reaffirmed its commitment to organizing a follow-up demonstration. The protest, titled "Towards Indonesia Bankrupt," is set to take place at Bundaran HI, a central location in Central Jakarta. Chairperson Yatalathof Ma'shum Imawan confirmed the continuation of the action, emphasizing that it aligns with the group’s earlier pledges made before the dispersal of the June 12th rally.

Building on Previous Commitments

Athof, representing BEM UI, stated that the follow-up protest is a direct response to the prior declaration. "The current event follows the commitments outlined in the pre-dissolution statement," he explained when reached on Sunday, June 14, 2026. This new gathering aims to address ongoing concerns about the nation's economic state, with participants hopeful that increased public presence will amplify their message.

The BEM UI alliance has also announced plans to expand its reach by inviting additional participants and other university campuses to join the movement. This strategy is intended to consolidate support and create a larger, more unified demonstration. However, the specific campuses to be included are still in the process of finalization, as the group seeks to ensure coordination and clarity in their efforts.

Key Demands for Economic and Political Reform

The protest centers on five core demands, which the alliance has outlined as critical to addressing Indonesia’s current challenges. These include halting the mismanagement of the state budget (APBN), reducing the costs of essential goods and fuel, suspending the free nutritious meal program (MBG), and stopping the expansion of the Merah Putih Village Cooperative. Additionally, the group calls for an end to the encroachment of militarism into civilian sectors and urges President Prabowo Subianto to publicly acknowledge the government’s mistakes and cease evading responsibility.

Among these, the issue of economic growth has been a focal point. In a statement, the alliance highlighted that while economic metrics suggest progress, the realities on the ground tell a different story. "Inflation has climbed, and job opportunities are dwindling," said a representative of the group, underscoring the disparity between official reports and the everyday struggles of citizens.

Challenges Faced During the Initial Rally

The June 12th demonstration, which was initially planned to occur at Bundaran HI, was interrupted by a forceful intervention from TNI and police units. Though the protest was held at Thamrin Nine Ballroom in Central Jakarta, the group’s organizers had anticipated the gathering at the roundabout. The sudden confrontation forced the alliance to halt its activities, prompting a shift in strategy for the follow-up event.

According to the BEM UI alliance, the TNI’s involvement in the demonstration has been a point of contention. They argue that the military should focus on defending national sovereignty rather than mediating or controlling civilian-led movements. "The TNI's actions during the protest reflected a lack of impartiality," said one participant, criticizing the military’s role in the event.

Political Criticism and Public Distrust

The alliance has also launched a sharp critique of President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership. They describe his leadership style as arrogant, unaccountable, and indifferent to the needs of the people. "His administration’s promises of a prosperous Indonesia have instead led to financial and democratic decline," said a spokesperson, highlighting the group’s frustration with the current political climate.

Among the most pressing grievances is the perception that the government’s policies are exacerbating economic hardship. The alliance points to rising prices of staple foods, such as rice, and a shrinking job market as evidence of their claims. "The economy is growing on paper, but ordinary Indonesians are bearing the brunt of the consequences," they added, calling for systemic changes to address these issues.

Participants and Their Collective Effort

The June 12th demonstration brought together a diverse coalition of student groups, including the BEM UI alliance (comprising BEM UI and 15 faculty-level student councils), BEM KM IPB, BEM PNJ, BEM Pancasila University, BEM Gunadarma Alliance, FMN Pusat, FMN UI, Pembebasan, and Semar UI. These organizations joined forces to voice their concerns about the state of Indonesia’s economy and political direction.

Following the rally, the BEM UI alliance issued a formal statement, reiterating their demands and outlining the urgency of the situation. "The current economic model is unsustainable," the statement read. "It is time for leaders to take accountability and implement meaningful reforms." The coalition’s representatives emphasized that the protest is not just a reaction to past events but a call to action for future change.

While the follow-up protest at Bundaran HI is expected to draw larger crowds, the alliance is working to strengthen its coalition. "We are preparing to bring more people into the movement, ensuring that our voices are heard," said Athof. This expansion underscores the growing momentum behind the cause, as students from various institutions unite to challenge the status quo.

Continued Resistance and Future Outlook

Despite the TNI and police efforts to block the protest, the BEM UI alliance remains resolute. "Our resolve is unshaken," stated a participant. "We will continue to demand transparency and justice, no matter the obstacles." The group has set a timeline for their next action, aiming to mobilize even greater support within the next 24 to 48 hours.

As the protests gain traction, the movement has drawn attention from both domestic and international observers. The continued defiance of authorities has sparked debates about the role of student organizations in shaping national discourse. For now, the BEM UI alliance is focused on rallying more participants and maintaining the pressure on the government to address their concerns.

Read more about the participation of workers in the "Indonesia Bankrupt" rally here. To stay updated on the latest news from Tempo.CO, visit Google News.

Contributing to this report was Hendrik Yaputra, who provided insights into the evolving dynamics of the protest movement. As the BEM UI alliance prepares for its next step, the nation watches closely, anticipating how this continued activism will shape the future of Indonesia’s political and economic landscape.