Activists Protest Suharto’s National Hero Nomination in Jakarta
On Thursday, about 100 activists gathered in Jakarta to oppose a government proposal to confer national hero status on former authoritarian leader Suharto. The planned honor, included among 48 candidates by the social and culture ministries, recognizes individuals contributing significantly to Indonesia annually on November 10.
Concerns Over Historical Revisionism and Legacy
Demonstrators voiced fears that granting Suharto the title would rewrite history, overlooking the oppressive aspects of his 32-year military-backed regime. His rule ended amid economic collapse, deadly riots, and mass protests in 1998.
Opposition from Rights Groups
Organizations like Amnesty International Indonesia and the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS) have firmly opposed Suharto's candidacy. They highlight his alleged involvement in human rights abuses and corruption as disqualifying factors.
"Suharto's alleged human rights violations and corruption render him unfit for the hero status."
Pending Presidential Approval
The final decision rests with President Prabowo Subianto, who must approve the designation.
Summary: Activists and human rights groups in Jakarta strongly contest honoring Suharto as a national hero, citing his authoritarian rule and human rights abuses as reasons to reject this historical revision.
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