Father Budi Purnomo comments on protests in Indonesia

Father Aloysius Budi Purnomo said recent protests at the Indonesian Parliament reflect a civic demand for justice, democracy, transparency, and more effective efforts to fight corruption. Speaking to Fides News Agency, the priest, who serves as secretary of the Commission for Interreligious Relations of the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference, noted that the demonstrations on August 27 included students and ordinary people, particularly from Central Java where corruption cases have been serious.

Father Budi Purnomo stated the movement is based on ethical principles rather than religion, noting that participants come from various religious backgrounds. He observed that the protests stem from a shared perception of the nation's common good. According to the priest, the protesters are targeting lawmakers at Parliament rather than directing demands at the government or President Prabowo Subianto. He added that the demands for transparency and justice are largely legitimate if pursued peacefully.