Jakarta – Dozens of students protested at the South Jakarta District Court on Monday, demanding the release of a fellow student being tried for defaming President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

The students, coming from various universities, attempted to enter the court but were blocked by police. The protesters then gathered in front of the building to hear speeches, causing serious traffic congestion along Jl. Ampera.

"Our friend is not being tried as a criminal. This is a political trial. Security therefore must not treat us like criminals," said one of the protest leaders, Borang. He added that he would negotiate with the police to allow representatives of the students to enter the court.

Antara reported that Fakhrur Rahman was detained shortly after taking part in a demonstration on June 21 at National University in South Jakarta.

During a speech at the demonstration, Fakhrur allegedly said President Yudhoyono was helping former president Soeharto avoid trial on corruption charges.