Ricki Putra Harahap, Jakarta – Indonesia's parliament leaders said they support student calls for an independent probe into alleged coup plots behind recent protests, but stressed only the government has the authority to form such a team.

The House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal said on Thursday that the DPR leadership would formally convey the proposal to the executive branch. "The proposal for an investigation team has been raised, and it is the government's authority to determine its mandate," Cucun told reporters in Jakarta.

Cucun added that the DPR retains an oversight role and pledged to monitor any steps taken through Commission III, which works closely with the National Police. "We will convey this aspiration and hear whether such a team will be established. Oversight is inherent to us in parliament, and Commission III will follow up on its implementation," he said.

The call for an independent probe was first raised on Wednesday by Agus Setiawan, head of the University of Indonesia's student executive body, during a forum with parliamentarians. Student groups argue that transparency is crucial in investigating claims of subversion within protest movements that have swept major Indonesian cities in last week.

The debate comes as President Prabowo Subianto and his cabinet have taken a hard line on escalating unrest. Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin clarified earlier remarks by the president, saying Prabowo's warnings that demonstrations could veer into "treason and terrorism" were meant as a reminder for vigilance.

"President Prabowo's statement should not be over-interpreted," Sjafrie told reporters at the presidential palace on Sunday. "It was a broad caution for all of us to remain alert under any circumstances."

Prabowo, who has faced mounting criticism over the government's heavy-handed response to protests, has ordered the military and police to act decisively against rioting, looting, and attacks on public facilities, citing the need to safeguard stability and economic centers. At the same time, he has urged dialogue, instructing the DPR to invite civil society, student leaders, and community groups to discuss solutions.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/indonesian-parliament-backs-student-call-for-coup-prob