Dani Aswara, Jakarta -The Indonesian Women's Alliance (API) has called on President Prabowo Subianto to withdraw the National Armed Forces (TNI) from public spaces. The appeal was made during a protest in front of the House of Representatives (DPR) building on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.
API spokesperson Mutiara Ika Pratiwi criticized Prabowo's recent statement labeling public protests as "anarchic." She argued that such remarks give the authorities free rein to act arbitrarily.
"It only deepens the divide between the government and the people who are struggling through the crisis," Mutiara said at the rally.
She condemned the authorities' heavy-handed actions that led to violent treatment of demonstrators. "Instead of issuing statements that can be misinterpreted on the ground, the President should order the withdrawal of the military to the barracks and ban the use of weapons against protesters," added Mutiara, who also serves as Chairwoman of Perempuan Mahardhika.
The alliance urged Prabowo to pay closer attention to the worsening economic conditions that have driven people to protest, from rising prices and mass layoffs to land seizures and cuts in basic services.
"The President should address the root causes of public frustration rather than stigmatize the people with negative labels," Mutiara said.
The protest began at 10:00 AM, with demonstrators carrying posters and chanting slogans against state violence. In front of the Parliament's gates, activists displayed portraits of victims of police and military brutality, including Affan Kurniawan, an online motorcycle taxi driver who died after being hit by a security vehicle.
The demonstration remained peaceful until it concluded at 12:40 PM.
In its six demands, API urged President Prabowo to immediately halt state violence. The group called for the withdrawal of TNI and police from civil affairs, the resignation of National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, and the unconditional release of all citizens and political detainees.
API also demanded an end to the criminalization of activists, journalists, and legal aid providers. Furthermore, the alliance pressed Prabowo to ensure that the military returns to its barracks and that citizens' constitutional rights to assemble, associate, and express opinions are guaranteed without intimidation.