KPAI Condemns Children's Involvement in 212 Rally
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21 February 2020 20:58 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta -The National Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has condemned the involvement of children in the “Aksi 212” rally held today on Medan Merdeka Barat street that was initiated by the National Movement to Safeguard Ulema Fatwas (GNPF) and the Islam Defenders Front (FPI) to protest against the nation’s corruption.
“We condemn the involvement of children in the 'Aksi 212.' This is a recurring event that we often see,” said KPAI commissioner Jasra Putra at the rally today. “I saw organizers busy voicing their demands but the children were let to smoke, with no food for them to eat, and many more.”
The KPAI commissioner said he saw hundreds of children participating in the rally who mostly come from the Greater Jakarta Area (Jabodetabek). He regretted that organizers allowed the children to be underfed and not be accommodated at a proper location.
“Children have the right to rest, at a time where they should be taking naps, playing with their friends, and be in a proper place at school. Now who would take responsibility if anything happens to them?” he asked.
KPAI also placed partial blame on the state ministries and authorities at the location of the Aksi 212 rally that did nothing to prevent children’s involvement.
“We hope the local government and the police share the same standard operating procedure. When children are involved in a rally, they must be accommodated at a proper location,” he said. The KPAI commissioner said children’s involvement in rallies or protests violate Article 15 (A) of Law No.35/2014.
M YUSUF MANURUNG