Jakarta's political prisoners demand freedom
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.POLITICAL prisoners in Indonesia yesterday demanded their immediate release, as the country's new president, B J Habibie, came under international pressure to bring about democratic reforms.
The state Antara news agency said that between 10 and 15 prisoners are likely to be released, but they will not include guerrillas fighting for the island of East Timor's independence or those jailed during anti- Communist witch- hunts in the 1960s and 1970s.
"We strongly refuse the use of the word 'amnesty'," said Sri Bintang Pamungkas, in a statement read aloud at Cipinang jail in Jakarta. "The correct words should be 'freed from any conditions at all' as freedom is really our right."
Mr Pamungkas was convicted last year of "insulting" President Suharto and sentenced to nearly three years in prison. Among the others who may be released are Muchtar Pakpahan, a trade union leader convicted of inciting riots, and Budiman Sudjatmiko, the leader of an illegal political party, who was sentenced to 13 years for subversion.
The opposition Muslim leader Amien Rais told reporters yesterday that President Habibie met with him and other opposition figures at the weekend and briefed them on his plans to reform Indonesia's political and economic life after 32 years of Suharto rule. Mr Rais said Mr Habibie planned to announce general elections in the next few days.
On Saturday, Ginandjar Kartasasmita, President Habibie's economics minister and the man responsible for dealing with Indonesia's financial crisis, joined the call for early elections.
IMF loan, page 17
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments