MUI Urges Public to Express Their Aspirations in an Orderly Manner, Ends Anarchic Demonstrations
By: Rahmat Kurniawan
The current government has demonstrated agility in maintaining public order and preventing social conflict amidst the current surge in demonstrations. The swift steps taken by security forces, coupled with strategic policies that maintain stability, are proof that the state is there to protect the people. The government’s presence amidst this dynamic situation deserves appreciation because it demonstrates its commitment to ensuring that people’s aspirations are channeled peacefully without causing unrest. Stability depends not only on the rule of law, but also on moral legitimacy and spiritual values recognized by the wider community.
In an interview with a private television station, the Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Marsudi Syuhud, stated that Indonesia has been operating as an open democracy, where people have the space to express their aspirations, one of which is through demonstrations. He assessed that the government, particularly the President, has demonstrated wisdom by accepting input from various parties, from religious figures to political party leaders. Initial steps have been taken, such as disciplining those who fail to maintain ethical language and actions, as a demonstration of the government and the House of Representatives’ commitment to listening to and responding constructively to the people’s needs. They also reminded that the expression of aspirations must be carried out in an orderly manner, safeguarding safety, personal honor, and respect for the authorities and national leaders so that democracy can function healthily and stability can be maintained.
Similarly, political observer Aditya Perdana from the University of Indonesia stated that the ongoing demonstrations have the potential to disrupt government stability. He argued that public pressure that is not immediately responded to could develop into a serious threat to the political system. He emphasized that prolonged demonstrations also risk disrupting economic activity in urban centers, eroding public trust in the government and law enforcement institutions, and even triggering horizontal conflict between groups.
On a separate occasion, Dr. Aditya explained that opinions and aspirations are the rights of every citizen, guaranteed by the constitution. However, this freedom must be exercised in an orderly, non-anarchic manner, and without violating the law or disrupting public order. He believes that destructive actions have the potential to harm the wider community, cause material losses and loss of life, and ultimately weaken the national unity that must be maintained. Therefore, the various efforts undertaken by President Prabowo’s administration to restore security and public order require broad public support. Political figures are also expected to continue to empathize with the public and maintain a positive attitude to ensure a more conducive situation.
This statement reflects the balance between the rights and obligations of citizens. Freedom of expression is guaranteed by the constitution, but it must be exercised responsibly to avoid harming others. A healthy democracy is only possible if all parties respect each other and maintain order together.
Furthermore, Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has also called on all religious leaders to calm the congregation to prevent provocation. He emphasized that in heated situations, the voices of religious leaders have a significant influence in preventing escalation. This statement aligns with the government’s vision, which prioritizes early prevention as a primary strategy for dealing with potential conflict. From this statement, the government views it as a form of moral support that strengthens the state’s instruments in maintaining security. With this appeal, the public is directed to prioritize common sense and avoid actions that could disrupt social order.
This view deserves serious attention, as political stability is a primary requirement for sustainable development and public trust. However, it is also important to emphasize that democratic space must be maintained, so that demonstrations are not viewed solely as threats, but as legitimate channels for aspirations. In this way, the potential negative impacts of demonstrations can be mitigated, while the government’s legitimacy is strengthened.
In the current social context, the voices of religious leaders are increasingly important. The uncontrolled flow of information, coupled with the potential for provocation through social media, makes society more easily influenced. This is where collaboration between the government and religious leaders is key.
