By Max Lane
Speaking at a media conference on September 11, Indonesia's armed forces chief General Wiranto said the military would take strong action against student demonstrations.
Wiranto warned, referring to student actions, that "freedom implemented to excess invites repressive action". In a clear threat, he stated that holding demonstrations will result in "human rights violations, victims falling and the emergence of martyrs, which can in turn provoke anarchy".
Wiranto continued: "The armed forces will not hesitate in taking firm action against such acts ... The armed forces are not willing to let the acts of a small part of the community sacrifice the interests of 200 million citizens of Indonesia, who yearn for prosperity, security, growth and justice."
The media conference was held to coincide with the presentation to parliament of a new regulation which limits the localities where demonstrations may take place. It also requires demonstration organisers to give 72 hours notice to the police, and that all demonstrations of more than 50 people apply for police permission.
Meanwhile, chairperson of the National Mandate Party, Amien Rais, has called for a halt to street demonstrations, "especially politically motivated demonstrations". Rais told reporters that, while the demand for lower prices which was raised at recent student demonstrations was legitimate, the students' call for President B.J. Habibie to resign indicated that the demonstrations were becoming too political.
Rais said he feared that if the street demonstrations continue, rival political forces would mobilise their supporters, leading to anarchy.
On September 11, students at Gajah Mada University launched a campaign for an end to the so-called "dual function of the armed forces" doctrine, which justifies military involvement in Indonesia's political system.