TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Thousands of laborers surrounded the Horse Statue at M.H. Thamrin Street up to the National Palace on Tuesday, Sept 1. They dominated and blocked both side of the roads that connects South Jakarta and Central Jakarta.

Muhammad Iqbal supports the protest because it conveys aspiration and the freedom of speech. However, the protest hampers other people including road users. Iqbal calls it “Paradox of Democracy."

Regional Metro Jaya Police Chief Inspector General Tito Karnavian has suggested that the government of Jakarta creates a special place for demonstators, like the Highland Park in England. The suggestion is currently being discussed in the parliament,” Tito said Tuesday.

Demonstration is a right which cannot be violated, especially in democratic countries like Indonesia. A special area for protestors would not disturb the public.

Tito’s expectation is in line with Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama. “I will create a special area for demonstrators in Jakarta, similar to the one in London, equipped with toilets, chairs, and tents with air conditioners,” said Ahok.

The protest from thousands of laborers on Tuesday has resulted in Transjakarta buses destinations Blok M - Jakarta City via Harmoni can only operate until Hotel Indonesia Circle. Laborers crowds the street along M.H. Thamrin until the National Palace. Authorities have closed the road from 9am-5pm.

Meanwhile, street vendors that are usually selling in the areas of National Monument, Dukuh Atas, Menteng Park, Gambir Station, piles up in the protesting area. Their profits have doubled compared to regular days. At normal days, the income of a Cendol merchant is usually Rp200,000. Yesterday, the income of an ice tea merchant reached Rp500,000.

DINI PRAMITA