We think it’s worth noting that this piece, as far as we can tell, was the only thing penned by a diaspora community organisation that actually had an appropriate response to the fascists last summer.We read it at the time and it’s a foundational part of what we wanted to see more of and frankly, what we wanted the project that eventually became Muntjac to be able to do. However, we were more shy about copyright at the time and since we didn’t get the green light to repost it until a few months ago so it has sat in our drafts for about a year. It really ‘belongs’ inside Issue 1 of Muntjac but we really can’t be fucked spending more time playing around with the PDFs so if we ever do ‘muntjac the first 3 issues’ as a book we’ll include it as an afterword.
Enjoy.
White riots 2024: it was going to be a matter of when, not if
The scale of the far-right riots of the last few days have been shocking, but not surprising. British politics is saturated with anti-migrant, anti-asylum seeker politics, while Islamophobia still runs deep in British culture.
We have all witnessed the openly far-right venom of the previous government, and knew that the fascists would be waiting in the wings of the current one, especially given the success of Reform last month.
The new Labour government has wholly embraced the racist terms of the debate over immigration – promising a “blitz on illegal immigration” less than a fortnight ago, and to stopping small boat crossings in their manifesto.
Meanwhile it spent the last 4 years in opposition broadcasting its disdain for Muslim and racialised communities in its bid for the racist vote.
Now, in the name of fiscal ‘responsibility’ it has committed to austerity and public funding cuts which have been a breeding ground for the far-right since 2010.
It was a matter of when, not if.
The lessons from our history
Like countless other groups and organisers, Nijjor Manush have spent the last few days thinking through both the short-term need for mobilisation to defend our communities, as well as long-term organising to build our capacity to fight fascism.
This will necessarily be reactive now, but also requires political clarity going forward. In doing so, some of us are returning back to the examples of Asian and Black self-organisation in postwar Britain.
But that history of Asian organising in Britain – our history of struggle – should not be invoked in vain.
There are clear lessons to be drawn from this history, and warnings to heed.
They include:
1) No surrender no retreat
2) We cannot rely on the police and state to protect us
3) Fascism must be defeated through organised political struggle
No surrender no retreat: ‘Staying home’ does not mean staying safe
We have seen calls from ‘community leaders’ as well as organic appeals asking people to stay home out of fear of encountering fascists targeting Black and Asian, migrant and/or Muslim individuals.
People have every right to be worried for themselves and their loved ones.
We understand that vulnerable and isolated communities may well choose to stay out of immediate harm’s way.
But staying home does not mean staying safe.
Far-right mobilisations in our communities are a show of force for the fascists to ‘claim’ our streets, to embolden them and give them license to terrorise us again and again.
They cannot be ignored or allowed to claim even symbolic victories, and wherever possible we must play a role in repelling them.
Our communities were won through struggle, and must be defended through struggle
Fascism must be defeated through organised political struggle
Keir Starmer’s law and order approach does something else: it conceals the politics of the fascists – and absolves the government’s responsibility to wage a political struggle against the far-right.
Writing the riots off as simply ‘far-right thuggery’ driven by social media lies allows them to be compartmentalised and cast out as ‘alien’ to British society.
And focusing on acts of violence and property damage in isolation, allows a shallow ‘both sides’ equivocation between fascists, and anti-fascists defending their communities.
But the politics motivating these riots – the anti-migrant agitation, the Islamophobia, and the racism – runs far deeper in British society, up through to its government.
It is not for no reason that some political figures have framed riots as having ‘legitimate concerns’, even while decrying their violence.
To rework an old phrase: What Farage says today, the Tories say tomorrow and Labour legislates on the day after.
Far-right mobilisations have long served as a ‘pressure group’ on British governments who concede to their demands while condemning their tactics.
The interconnection between domestic violence and British-backed violence abroad – of fascist demonstrators regularly waving the Israeli flag, of the British far-right defence of the British Army and empire, or of British police brutalising protestors against British-backed Israeli genocide – is also not coincidental.
British imperialism is, and always has been, the wellspring of British fascism – and the point of clearest alignment between the state and movements of the far-right.
In addition to repelling the fascists off our streets we need organised, principled political struggle against the politics that drives them – not opportunistic appeals to law and order policing to (temporarily) move the problem out of sight and mind.
What should we do now?
These have been dark days but there have been examples to take heart from.
We have seen places where fascists have been outnumbered and sent home bloodied. We have seen our communities come out to defend themselves rather than retreat.
But we must recognise the urgency of the situation.
We need to be linking with, working alongside and supporting those most directly targeted by these fascist attacks – migrants and asylum seekers, Muslims and racialised communities: those who have barely, if ever, get mentioned in the government’s PR statements.
This is especially important in the case of those living outside the heartlands and metropoles.
There are many fronts to antifascist struggle. Frontline defence of our communities against fascist mobilisations is vital. But we also need to build communications and networks of support among our communities, and to develop a broad-based layer of popular antifascist sentiment and action.
We also need sector-based efforts, including in workplaces and unions, as well as in sports and creative institutions.
It is not enough to argue against a policing solution: we must represent the tangible alternative infrastructure for supporting our communities.
The large networks of mobilisation and channels of communications that we have built up in our campaigns against Israel’s genocide can become the bases of confronting fascism going forward, as can our anti-raids, Copwatch and tenants union networks.
These can be networks of solidarity and support, as well as our eyes on the ground against any fascist movements locally.
We must also be prepared for police repression, including efforts to criminalise self-defence or equate those who choose those tactics with far-right violence.
This includes equipping our communities with rights training for counter-demonstrations, as well as staying coordinated with groups who can provided legal and arrestee support if required.
Finally, we must also struggle against the culture of collaboration among our community institutions.
This includes religious leaders and facilities who see the solution in greater presence of police in our mosques etc, who issue condemnation when our youth fight back, or work with state-aligned or funded groups like Tell Mama or HopeNotHate.
There are many fronts in the antifascist struggle and that means different tactics.
But self defence is no offence – and we will not throw anyone under the bus.
We [Muntjac] won’t be there as a group but some copies of muntjac 1 will be on the stall. The text below is cut + paste from International Solidarity LDN’s socials.
‼️APRIL 19‼️
Come join us at the newly reopened Piehouse Co-op for a night of punk, jungle, dnb, dub, and more! This is a benefit for the new Antifascist Internationalist Front fighting against Myanmar’s fascist regime; all the money raised will go straight to support the revolution.
Hear a message from the AIF and some context from comrades in the struggle against the dictatorship in Myanmar
Live bands from 7.30-9
Restless Taxis
SexLoveFuckYou
639Distortion
DJs from 9-12.30
Body riot
Passer
JV
M.A.N.U
We will have AIF stickers available for donation to raise funds for the AIF. We will also be launching a zine at the event:
“Anti-Fascist Perspectives on Revolutionary Struggle in Myanmar: Dispatches from the Anti-Fascist Internationalist Front”
The zine features interviews with AIF members and revolutionaries in Myanmar, and presents a feminist and internationalist perspective.
You will need to create an account with lists.riseup.net (this is a different thing to a riseup account and you can use any email address) and then sign up.
We won’t spam you but expect an email whenever we do something interesting.
Ang Pahayag ng Pakiki-isa: Labanan ang Oligarkiyang Militar sa Indonesia at Tuligsain ang mga Dinastiya sa Timog Silangang Asya, Likhain ang Kapangyarihan sa Laylayan
Kami ay kaisa ng mga kapatid at kasama na Indonesian sa kanilang pakikibaka laban sa panunumbalik ng militar sa pamamahala. Iniuugnay namin ito sa kilusang masa sa Pilipinas at ng buong Timog-Silangang Asya na nakikibaka para sa tunay na kalayaan.
Labanan Ang Indonesian National Armed Forces Bill (UU TNI)
Karamihan sa pamayanan ng Timog Silangang Asya ay kasalukuyang nasa ilalim pa rin ng awtoritaryan at diktaduryang militar tulad ng sa Myanmar.
Sa Indonesia, mahigit dalawampung taon na ang nakaraan ay matagumpay na pinabagsak ng kilusang Reformasi ang diktaduryang militar. Ngunit nariyan pa rin ang saklaw ng militar sa sibilyan na kaayusan, at kamakailan ay nagnanais itong ikonsolida ang kanilang panunumbalik sa kapangyarihan. Dagdag pa rito, nais ng pamahalaan ng Indonesia, sa ilalim ng dating berdugo ni Suharto na si Prabowo, na bawasan ang badyet para sa edukasyon. Isa itong tahasang hakbang para mangmgangin ang mamamayan at ipakalimot ang dusang naranasan ng Indonesia sa ilalim ng 30 taong diktadurya. Kaya naman nitong huli ay muling nag-aklas ang mga mamamayang Indonesian upang tutulan ang UU TNI — ang batas na nagpapahintulot na makialam ang mga militar sa sibilyan na pamumuhay.
Sabay-sabay na nagprotesta sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng Indonesia ang mga mamamayan nito. Ang sigaw ng mga kabataan, magsasaka, manggagawa at maralita ay “Kita tidak butuh militer dalam urusan sipil!” —Hindi namin kailangan ang Militar na makialam sa aming pamumuhay.
Bakit Magkaugnay Ang Ating Pakikibaka?
Ang dating tambalang Marcos-Duterte at ang mga dinastiyang politiko sa Pilipinas ay hindi naiiba sa mga oligarkong militar sa Indonesia at Myanmar. Pareho nilang ayaw sa pananagutan at sagka din sila sa kalayaan at pag unlad ng karaniwang mamamayan. Ang kanilang modus ay panatilihing tagalimos lamang ang karaniwang mamamayan sa kanilang ayuda tuwing may sakuna o eleksyon para tuluyan nang hindi tayo makabangon sa pagkaka-utang na loob. Panay pangako ng pag-unlad ang naganap sa ilalim ng “Bagong Lipunan” ni Marcos Sr. (“Bagong Pilipinas” naman kina “Marcos-Duterte”) at “Orde Baru” ni Suharto. Pero sa dokumentadong katotohanan, bagsak na ekonomiya, dayuhang ganansya, mahal na bilihin, pananakot ng militar, at busal sa bibig ang mga kinahantungan ng mga pangakong ito. Ngayon, sa popular na pamumuno ni Prabowo, may maaasahan ba talagang pag-unlad gayong walang nagbago, gayong ang mga namumuno noon ay muli na namang namumuno ngayon?
Ang hinaing ng karaniwang Indonesian ay kadugtong ng ating hininga, malinaw itong nagsasabing ayaw na nating maging alipin sa predatoryang politika ng oligarkiya at dinastiya.
Dapat silang pabagsakin at kasabay nito ay napapanahon nang buohin ng malayang kilusang masa ang kapangyarihan sa bawat laylayan. Sa pamamagitan ng magkakaugnay na kapangyarihang lokal ay mabibigyan ng katuwiran ang buktot na pamamahala ng mga dinastiya at oligarko na matagal nang nang-aalipin saan mang dako ng karagatan.
BIGUIN ANG MILITARISMO AT PANGAKO NG PEKENG PAG-UNLAD!!
KALAYAAN MULA SA OLIGARKIYA AT DIKTADURYA!!
BAWIIN ANG KAPANGYARIHANG INAGAW NG MGA PAMAHALAAN!!
SOLIDARITAS KE RAKYAT!! PAKIKI-ISA SA MGA MAMAMAYAN!!
Kaisahang Komiteng para sa Indonesia Gelap/
Solidarity Committee for Indonesian Gelap
Donate
If you wish to donate to anarchists on the ground, we, the Solidarity Committee for Indonesian Gelap, trust and edorse the following PayPal details held by the Komite Pembentukan Perhimpunan Merdeka (formation committee for the Perhimpunan Merdeka anarchist federation): <Chitons@autistici.org>
Open Call: International Solidarity for Indonesian Democracy
Halt Indonesia’s Slide into Military Dictatorship—Repeal the Authoritarian TNI Law Before It’s Too Late!
We, Indonesian groups, organizations, activists, and individuals, raise our voices in outrage and condemnation as the Indonesian Parliament legalizes the revised Indonesian National Armed Forces Bill (UU TNI) today — 20.03.2025. This law marks a devastating blow to democracy, human rights, and civilian supremacy in Indonesia, signaling a dangerous shift toward militarism and the rise of neo-fascist tendencies reminiscent of the dark days of the Suharto regime.
The revised UU TNI, now enacted, grants the military unprecedented powers to intervene in law enforcement, counter-terrorism, and civilian affairs. This blatant militarization of Indonesian society threatens to dismantle decades of democratic progress, suppress dissent, and institutionalize human rights violations. By eroding the boundary between military and civilian roles, this law entrenches authoritarianism and undermines the very foundations of democracy.
We cannot ignore the historical parallels. Under Suharto’s military-backed dictatorship (1966–1998), Indonesia endured a brutal regime characterized by widespread human rights abuses, corruption, and the suppression of democracy. The military, or TNI, was a central pillar of Suharto’s authoritarian rule, acting as both a political enforcer and a tool of repression. The regime’s fascist tendencies silenced dissent, exploited resources for personal gain, and entrenched systemic corruption, leaving a legacy of trauma and injustice that Indonesians are still grappling with today.
The revised UU TNI risks reviving this dark chapter. By expanding the military’s role in civilian affairs, the law paves the way for a return to the militarism, corruption, and authoritarianism of the Suharto era. This is not just a step backward—it is a leap toward neo-fascism, where the military becomes a tool of oppression. A Dangerous Continuation of Militarism
The timing of this law is deeply alarming, given the political rise of Prabowo Subianto, a former military general with a controversial past. Prabowo, who served as a high-ranking officer under Suharto, has been implicated in numerous human rights abuses, including the kidnapping of pro-democracy activists in 1998 and atrocities in East Timor and Papua. His political ascension, now as Indonesia’s president, raises serious concerns about the resurgence of militarism and authoritarianism in the country.
Prabowo’s background as a military leader with close ties to the Suharto regime underscores the dangers of the revised UU TNI. His presidency, combined with the expanded powers granted to the military, creates a perfect storm for the erosion of democracy and the normalization of authoritarian practices. This law not only reflects Prabowo’s militaristic vision for Indonesia but also threatens to legitimize the use of military force against civilians, activists, and political opponents. We stand in unwavering solidarity with the people of Indonesia—students, activists, human rights defenders, and civil society organizations—who have courageously opposed this law. Our voices represent the aspirations of a free and democratic Indonesia, have been ignored by a government that prioritizes militarization over the will of its people.
We Demand Immediate Action:
Repeal the Revised UU TNI Now: The Indonesian government must immediately revoke this dangerous law and halt all efforts to expand the military’s role in civilian life.
Restore Civilian Control: The military must be subordinated to civilian authority, as required in any democratic society. Its role must be strictly limited to defending the nation from external threats.
End Militarization and Protect Human Rights: The Indonesian government must ensure that the revised UU TNI is not used to suppress dissent, target activists, or violate human rights.
Respect the People’s Resistance: The government must listen and obey to the millions of Indonesians who have protested this law and reject any attempt to silence their voices.
Global Accountability: The international community must hold the Indonesian government accountable for the consequences of this law, including any human rights abuses or democratic backsliding.
Since this article was written, at least 19 cities have simultaneously held protest demonstrations following the enactment of the TNI Law on March 20, 2025: Jakarta, Bandung, Manado, Pekanbaru, Yogyakarta, Makassar, Padang, Pontianak, Semarang, Samarinda, Medan, Papua, Ambon, Surabaya, Malang, Lampung, Bali, Palembang, and Aceh. During these protests, there has also been excessive use of violence by the police. The targets of this violence were random, such as the general public, anarchists, students, journalists, and even online motorcycle drivers. Nearly every city that held protests experienced police violence. A news agency (TEMPO), known for its criticism of government policies and performance, was terrorized by receiving a package containing a severed pig’s head.
To the International Community:
The legalization of the revised UU TNI is not just an Indonesian problem—it is a global crisis. Indonesia plays a critical role in the fight for democracy and human rights in Southeast Asia and beyond, therefore, the rise of militarism and neo-fascism in Indonesia threatens regional stability and sets a dangerous precedent for authoritarian regimes worldwide.
The people of Indonesia have fought too hard and sacrificed too much for democracy to allow their country to slide back into the militarism, corruption, and authoritarianism of the Suharto era. We cannot remain silent as neo-fascism rises in Indonesia. Together, we must resist, fight back, and stand in solidarity with the people of Indonesia.
We call on the international community to:
Condemn Indonesia’s Authoritarian Turn: Publicly denounce the revised UU TNI and its threat to democracy and human rights.
Stand with Indonesian Civil Society: Support the brave activists, students, and organizations resisting militarization and fighting for democracy.
Impose Consequences: Use diplomatic, economic, and political tools to pressure the Indonesian government to repeal this law and uphold democratic principles.
Monitor and Expose Abuses: Document and expose any human rights violations or anti-democratic actions resulting from the implementation of this law.
Head over to the Indonesian embassy in your country and give them a heads-up, in whatever way you want.
We rise, not in silence, but in raging fire.
A wildfire of defiance, fueled by the love of freedom,
and the unyielding spirit of those who refuse to kneel.
This is not just a fight for Indonesia,
but a battle cry for every soul who dares to dream
of a world unchained, unbowed, unbroken.
We reject the chains of militarism,
the cold steel of authoritarianism,
and the suffocating grip of neo-fascism.
We are the voices of the oppressed,
the hands that build barricades,
the hearts that beat for anarchy—
the chaos, and the beautiful disorder of liberation.
We will not let the shadows of Suharto’s regime
darken the skies of tomorrow.
We will not let Prabowo’s militaristic dreams
trample the gardens of democracy.
We are the storm, the reckoning,
the ungovernable force that says:
Enough is enough.
To the tyrants, the enforcers, the architects of oppression:
Your walls will crumble,
Your laws will burn,
Your power will dissolve like ash in the wind.
For we are the people,
wild, untamed, and free.
And we will fight,
not just for Indonesia,
but for the boundless, anarchist love of freedom
that lives in us all.
The arrest of three of our companions by the police occurred following the Molotov cocktail attack on the 705 Traffic Post (Poslantas), located at the intersection of AP Pettarani Street and Sultan Alauddin Street in Makassar, South Sulawesi. This action was a form of resistance against increasingly oppressive government policies, including the revision of the Military Law (UU TNI), which expands military control over civilian life. This is a regressive step that only deepens the repression of the people.
That night, our three companions approached Poslantas 705, fully aware that the state only understands the language of real resistance. The Molotov was thrown, the fire ignited, and in an instant, the police post became a symbol of warning that the people would not remain silent in the face of oppression. This act was not merely out of anger, but a message: the law enforced by the state is nothing more than a tool to maintain order that benefits a select few in power.
It did not take long for the authorities to respond. With all the resources and surveillance at their disposal, the police quickly pursued the perpetrators. The arrest operation was carried out systematically, utilizing monitoring technology and information from their networks. Our three companions were eventually apprehended, handcuffed, and taken to the police station for interrogation.
This arrest is part of the repressive pattern consistently employed by the state against anyone daring to challenge its authority. They seek to send a message that resistance must be silenced, that any form of disobedience will be met with violence and imprisonment. However, they forget one thing—the fire that burned that night did not only consume the police post, but also the spirit of resistance that will not be extinguished simply because a few individuals are confined behind bars.
Out there, solidarity will continue to pulse. They may have captured our companions, but the idea of liberating life from the shackles of the state and capitalism will continue to spread. As long as this system exists, resistance will persist.
LONG LIVE ANARCHY!
LONG LIVE THE PERSISTENCE OF INSURRECTION!
UNTIL ALL OF US ARE FREE!
KRONOLOGI PENANGKAPAN TIGA KAWAN ANARKIS DI MAKASSAR
Penangkapan yang dilakukan kepolisian terhadap tiga orang kawan kami terjadi setelah aksi pelemparan bom molotov di Pos Lalu Lintas (Poslantas) 705, yang terletak di pertigaan Jalan AP Pettarani – Sultan Alauddin, Makassar, Sulawesi Selatan. Aksi ini merupakan bentuk perlawanan terhadap kebijakan pemerintah yang semakin menindas, salah satunya revisi UU TNI yang memperluas kontrol militer dalam kehidupan sipil, sebuah langkah mundur yang hanya memperdalam represi terhadap rakyat.
Pada malam itu, ketiga kawan kami mendekati Poslantas 705 dengan penuh kesadaran bahwa negara hanya memahami bahasa perlawanan yang nyata. Molotov dilempar, api menyala, dan dalam sekejap pos polisi itu menjadi simbol peringatan bahwa masyarakat tidak akan diam atas segala bentuk represi. Aksi itu bukan sekadar amarah, tapi sebuah pesan: bahwa hukum yang ditegakkan negara tidak lain hanyalah alat untuk menjaga ketertiban yang menguntungkan segelintir penguasa.
Tak butuh waktu lama bagi aparat untuk merespons. Dengan segala sumber daya dan pengawasan yang mereka miliki, kepolisian segera memburu para pelaku. Operasi penangkapan dilakukan secara sistematis, menggunakan teknologi pemantauan dan informasi dari jaringan mereka. Tiga kawan kami akhirnya ditangkap, diborgol, dan dibawa ke kantor polisi untuk diinterogasi.
Penangkapan ini adalah bagian dari pola represif yang selalu dilakukan negara terhadap siapa pun yang berani menantang otoritasnya. Mereka ingin mengirimkan pesan bahwa perlawanan harus dibungkam, bahwa setiap bentuk ketidakpatuhan akan dibalas dengan kekerasan dan penjara. Tapi mereka lupa satu hal—api yang menyala malam itu tidak hanya membakar pos polisi, tapi juga semangat perlawanan yang tidak akan padam hanya karena beberapa orang dikurung di balik jeruji.
Di luar sana, solidaritas akan terus berdenyut. Kawan-kawan kami boleh mereka tangkap, tapi gagasan untuk membebaskan hidup dari belenggu negara dan kapital akan terus menyebar. Sebab selama sistem ini masih ada, perlawanan akan selalu berlanjut.
Drive back armed domination! Kick the military out of civilian affairs! Take back control over our lives!
No Masters, No Slaves! Solidarity, Freedom, and Justice for All!
These are just some of the calls to arms spreading like wildfire throughout Indonesia this past week as revolutionists, democracy protestors, students groups and working class rebels from across the political strata hit the streets to stand against a plague of amendments being brought in which will once against see Indonesia exist under a near-junta authority, with military officers occupying civil positions.
Vast protests have occurred across many islands of Indonesia seeing major demonstrations, riots and, militant action in Jakarta, Malang, Surabaya, Manado, and Yogykarta, with smaller demonstrations in Sernad, Sukabemi, Bandung, Purwokerto and many other locations. Diaspora communities around the world have also taking actions in solidarity, most prominently in solidarity Berlin, New York City and Melbourne.
Some background
Indonesia has a since it’s independence been a country government with the military order. Initially under President Sukarno autocratic state which committed acts of genocide against political leftist, ethnic and religious opposition, active and perceived, then President Suharto who consolidated the authority of the state into a Junta government branded the “Orde Baru,” or New Order, a 32 year long military dictatorship which kept the 17,000 islands and some 600 ethnics groups in check, imposing a brutal colonial might on separatists and autonomist movements.
This period would come to an end in 1998 during following the global financial crisis which hit Asia hard, Suharto was seen as culpable and corrupt, as political tensions rose, mass student demonstrations broke out. The police would murder several of them, which resulted in an outburst of revolutionary direct action ultimately leading to the Indonesian Parliament being occupied by countless thousands who pitched in on the grounds and roof, demanding he resign. The political elite seeing which way the wind was blowing did the rest, and something resembling a active liberal democracy would follow with the usual ebbs and flows of the state.
Under Suharto Indonesia was ran on a doctrine of dwifungsi or “dual function” which gave the military a powerful role in civil society. Much of this was put into check by the 2004 Indonesian Military (TNI) Law which was fought for in the streets and in the halls of government. It was seen as a powerful step away from the reminants of the Junta governance and dictatorship and an important pillar of power resting with the people.
Since 2014 Indonesia has been in the grasp of President Joko Widodo, also knows as Jokowi. Initially he represented the centre-left secular national “Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle” (PDI-P) but would soon stray right wards and during the twlight of his second term he would begin openly leading his support to Prabowo Subianto, leader of therival “Great Indonesia Movement Party” or “Gerindra” Party, which is a populist, nationalist right wing party similar to those making ground around the world. His running mate was even Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Jokowi’s son, and the pair would win the elections and take power last October.
Subianto, a former Commandant General of Kopassus (Indonesian Special Forces), with a long legacy of being connected to the kidnapping of democracy activists and using military and criminal elements to pressure political rivals, immediately set to work restoring the old terror. Armed with a ream of legislation that would cut the to the very core of the liberty Indonesians have fought the past twenty years for, the months since he took office have been deeply painful for the people of Indonesia.
There is a great piece by the folks at CrimethInc which goes much deeper into the contemporary and historical struggles in indonesia which I highly recommend taking the time to digest. You’ll find that piece here.
2025 – The Uprising Begins
This most recently wave starts in Surakarta on 14 Feb and anti-government protests under the moniker “Adili Jokowi” or “Try Jokowi” protest, demand investigation of cases involving him, specifically around corruption, money laundering and extortion.
This protest was quickly following on 17 Feb in protests against Presidential Instruction Number 1 of 2025, (a series of massive budget cuts) and be given the moniker “Indonesia Gelap” or “Dark Indonesia”. Spearheaded by the student movement, in particular the All-Indonesian Students’ Union (BEM SI) there was a massive surge in overt and clandestine political agitation, demos of thousands took place across dozens of cities in town squares and outside regional government offices.
Typical of Indonesian wit and humour an early seriesof demand took an acronym spelling the name of a popular meatball snack Pentol.
Polisi diberesin ———‘The police must be fixed’ Energi buat rakyat ———‘Energy for the people’ Naikkan taraf hidup rakyat ———‘Increase the people’s well-being’ Tunaikan tukin untuk guru, ASN dan dosen ———‘Pay allowances for teachers, state employees, and lecturers’ Output MBG diperbaiki ———Fix the output of the free nutritious meal program’ Lawan mafia tanah dan lengserkan pejabat tolol ———‘Fight the land mafias and topple down stupid officials’
Tho various groups formal and otherwise would issue lists of demands and aims, the above pretty much sums up the meat of the issue and remained a driving call. Prefigured networks of community and solidarity spooled into action and started implementing pipelines of food, water, and medical provisions to support the students. This even extended to fandom communities and similar otherwise apolitical social spaces. Beautiful working class solidarity spilled forth.
Police responded with violence.
The state responded with censorship.
Corporate Medias responded with disinformation.
Out of this storm has come many new affinities, groups, and co-ordinations. One such formation of particular not is a nascent Anarchist Federation for Indonesia, Perhimpunan Merdeka.
At the start of the month, 16 participants, delegates from 5 locals, 3 no-0nlocals and 2 observers came together over a few days as a “pre-congress” and now work towards a First Congress, to establish a Specific Anarchist Organisation built up libertarian principles towards and work towards popular power.
The Second Phase
From 11 March, a new wave of rebellion would ignite under the moniker Tolak RUU TNI in opposition of the Draft Law on the Indonesian National Army. Tolak means to reject, RUU refers to the draft law, and TNI is the Indonesia National Army.
In Yogyakarta, numerous groups band around a handful of demands.
1. Demand that the Government and DPR cancel the revision of the TNI Law, which lacks transparency, is rushed, and disregards public opinion, as it constitutes a constitutional violation.
2. Demand that the Government and DPR uphold the constitution and remain committed to the Reform Agenda by preserving the principles of civilian supremacy and equality before the law, while firmly rejecting the dual function of the TNI/Polri.
3. Demand that the TNI/Polri, as state institutions, undergo internal reforms and enhance their professionalism to restore public trust.
4. Urge all academicians across Indonesia to take a firm stance against actions that undermine democracy, violate the constitution, and deviate from the reform agenda.
5. Encourage and support civil society efforts to safeguard the Reform Agenda by actively monitoring and holding the Government and Parliament accountable.
This artwork relates to the Sukatani Band from Purbalingga whose song Bayar Bayar Bayar, with it’s anti police message, caused such a stir they were forced to unmask themselves and apologise to the police. The song has since become an acapella hit at protests.
These are subsequently refined by the students themselves and became.
1. Reject the entire draft revision of the TNI Law which is considered to weaken civilian supremacy and open up opportunities for the return of the dual function of the TNI.
2. Urging the removal and termination of active TNI-Polri officers from civilian positions to prevent abuse of power and corrupt practices in the military.
3. Achieve civilian supremacy and stop the neglect of the reform agenda to ensure that the military remains in the corridor of its main task as the guardian of national defence.
4. Reject all forms of militarisation in civilian government and demand the government’s commitment to safeguard democratic values and human rights.
Demonstrations continue, the international community begins to stir. On 20 March, the drafted amendments to the 2004 Indonesian Military (TNI) Law were passed in the House of Representatives by unanimous vote. #TolakRUUTNI becomes #TolakUUTNI.
The government has said the bill requires officers to resign from the military before assuming civilian posts at departments such as the Attorney’s General Office, but everyone knows what the truth and realities are. Dwifungsi is back and it presents a critical threat to every Indonesian who doesn’t collaborate with the military state.
Driven by the passion and energy of the student body, whose future has just been gutted via bureaucratic paper signing, in short, said fuck this. They hit the street en-masse and hard.
A lone candle in a block of tofu celebrating a childs birthday has become a popular icon amongst artists following the mass layouts and false promise of a nutrition programme. It reads “We get free lunch, but not dinner.”
Now is the fight for the future
The police rolled out in the their armed gangs, backed up by water cannons, ready to wield their great capacity for violence. The people do not pause but continue to descend on the halls of authority, not just in the Capital, not just in the seat of regional authority but everywhere. Far from allow this intimidation to stand, and knowing what is at stake the Indonesia. They marched.
The students do not stand alone. Communists and Anarchists alike, keen and driven, not stalled by fart sniffing debates of the merits of popular uprising, civil democracy or the political niche of the person next to them on the riot line have been active components of the protests on the streets and in the organising. Cells of militants taking the front line on the offensive and the beating on the defensive. Trade unionists, shop workers, alma maters, street rats, punks, renegades, salarymen, family… they are not alone. Away from the police lines, networks of mutual aid, pitch stakes in the ground and keep people, fed, hydrated, and patched together, give them a place to rest, recover, charge devices, check messages, tell mum you’re all right, play a game, kiss, smoke, breath for a moment before heading back out.
The police have of course been using all their dirty tricks, from using under cover snatch and grab gangs, agent provocateurs and disrupting spy cops, and using underhanded tactics such as forcing ambulances to redirect injured protestors to police stations for arrest without treatment. They’ve also been caught using “stingray” tech to intercept phone information, specifically phone numbers, which they are then using to attempt to join organiser chats on various IM services. There have been multiple instances in which people have been removed from messaging groups after their number has been spoofed.
The text informs the user that their number has been disconnected from services and it is use on another device.
Of-course their obscene violence doesn’t just exist on the openly on the streets and behind closed doors as they deliver “justice” in the cells, they’ve also been proactively attacking community spaces, water/food storage points and medical outposts, making a point to destroy all of the materials they can find.
None of this has done much to sour the temperament of the community who have continued to organise and take the fight to the state en-masse.
In situ, on the physical peripheries, online… solidarity flows. This beautiful attitude to forward art and culture, unrestrained from finger wagging and nursed restraint and similar to the Hong Kong uprising. This is in-part driven by a healthy decentralised network of connections, and keen arts and meme culture which has been taking iconic moments are making legends within hours of the footage being shared. Pick your platform and look up Indonesia and you’ll see a wealth meme, shitposting, manga drawings, comics, illustrations and high art, across the spectrum of technical ability and tone. It’s fucking beautiful.
Take one such moment, when a protestor in Manado climbs up on the riot van and spars with a cop, dropping him to his knees as all his fellow jackboots try and jump up. Instantly iconic and Indonesians revel in sharing the moment with delight and solidarity. There are countless moments in the storm that will live forever, In Surabaya, where a thousand people confronted police, forcing them into a defensive shield around their water cannon, pelted with rocks and Molotovs. In Malang militants battle through the night against riot police armed with improvised weapons make from street furniture. Away from the spectacle of violence, people are cared for and supported. Collectives forming. Friendships and comradely relationships formed in the fire.
They fight for the future.
The struggle will continue.
I write this over the 26-27 of March, I’ve avoided looking at the news and checking contacts and points of information least I lose myself further to updates, this was supposed to be an “In Brief” report simply to outline the context behind the dramatic often context-less footage across social media. It’s expected that with Eid there with be a subsidence from both sides but this struggle has far from ended, and soon they’ll be back out on the streets carrying on the struggle for the future, especially due to the looming revisions to the National Police (POLRI) law.
This is an ongoing situation and we hope to provide a deeper analysis and review of these events in due course. However for now, I encourage to look up further information where ever you access it and show you’re solidarity in any means accessible. Let our comrades in the fight know they are not alone and the world stands with them against the terrible threat of the Dwifungsi and Junta government by any name.
Knowing what is happening, sharing solidarity is vital right now. Let them know we see them and stand with them. If you’re able to provide material aid below photo of lads playing footie to keep the spirits up you’ll find some fundraisers. I’ll add to this as I come across more. The lack of numerous established links speaks poorly to our internationalism but we should ever aim to improve these links, across our respective tendancies and the many thousands of milies. Solidarity is Critical. If you can send over material aid, do.
If you are location in Indonesia and are close with the movement and would like to write a report or give an interview please get in contact with with Organise and/or the Anarchist Federation.■
Material fundraisers are somewhat fine on the ground due to the ongoing nature of the things and the language barriers. We will list those we are able to confirm below.
An International Fundraising Campaign in Solidarity with our Indonesian Anarchist Combatants.
Support the anarchist combatants in Indonesia who are fighting against stae repression, capitalism, and all forms of authoritarianism! After the passage of the TNI law and the planned passage of the POLRI law, a wave of large demonstrations erupted in various cities. The state further solidified its grip by militerizing civilian spaces, silencing resistance with violence and criminalisation. In the midst of this situation, international solidarity becomes crucial. The funds collected will be used for urgent needs such as survival equiptment, logistics costs, evacuation costs, as well as the needs of the safe house. Any contribution, no matter how small, is a real step towards strengthening the resistance and ensuring that the fire of freedom is not extinguished. Solidarity knows no bounds. Show your support now!
You can make donations via paypal at; einzine16@gmail.com (sending for friends and family)
Love Live Anarchy
Death To The State!
Solidarity Means Attack!
Here is a fundraiser for a community kitchen (dapur warga) and street paramedic (paramedis jalanan)crew in Yogyakarta.
Their call out:
Hello friends good afternoon!
As we know the action to reject the TNI bill is moving simultaneously in several cities including Yogyakarta. we are opening the need for a public kitchen for the needs of several days during camping at the DPRD (local parliament building).
Bank name: BCA
Bella Antika
037 415 6817
Swift Code for the Bank Central Asia (BCA): CENAIDJAXXX
Sidiq is an anarchist, illegalist and an individualist. On the 12th of July 2024, state authorities had arrested him for cannabis use and possession. He contributes to anarchist publishing and street libraries, involvement in soccer hooligan club, clashes in protests and a passion for writing poetry. Sidiq is looking at a possible 10 year prison term.
His support group are taking donations via paypal at; einzine16@gmail.com (referance Sadiq and mark for friends and family)
You can write to Sidiq;
Muhammad Ilyas Sidiq
Lapas (prison) Kebonwaru, Kec.
Batununggal, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat
40272
Indonesia
I’ll sign of with this translation of a leaflet distributed by anarchists as part of the movement in the city of Makassar on March 20th. It was originally published on perhimpunanmerdeka.wordpress.com and is shared via Global May Day.
The TNI (Indonesian Military) Bill is Not Just Another Law—It’s a Declaration of War Against the People’s Freedom!
This ARMED OLIGARCHY REGIME seeks to restore military dominance over all aspects of life, repeating the New Order era when the army was a tool of oppression!
Backed by numerous political parties, former activists, influencers, and opportunistic intellectuals, they are eager to embed the military into civilian institutions, ensuring total control over people’s lives. From the Attorney General’s Office, ministries, and civil agencies to the distribution of rice and fertilizers, even matters of farmland and free meal programs—everything is designed to secure oligarchic interests and keep the people submissive under military boots!
They talk about “Military Operations Other Than War,” but their real intention is clear: to free the military from parliamentary oversight, giving them unchecked legitimacy to act as they please!This means we can expect more enforced disappearances, land grabs from citizens and indigenous communities, destruction of forests and oceans, and open repression against those who dare to resist!
Even worse, the military is now meddling in food supplies, LPG distribution, and national projects! This is the true face of state capitalism—
the military as the enforcer of capitalists, ensuring the people remain below a decent living standard and powerless
The TNI Bill Must Be Resisted! We Do Not Need the Military in Civilian Affairs!
Build people’s power from belowthrough local councils, factory councils, workplaces, campuses, villages, cooperatives, and economic networks to replace this corrupt social structure!
Organize grassroots resistancethrough autonomous action committees!
Drive back armed domination! Kick the military out of civilian affairs! Take back control over our lives!
No Masters, No Slaves! Solidarity, Freedom, and Justice for All!
Anarchists fight against poverty and enslavement, in spiritual as well as material form. Our struggle – which takes freedom and self-responsibility as both means and ends – has been expressed as an ecstatic “Yea to life”, as an unleashing of the “creative nothing” of individual uniqueness, and as the “conquest of life and the realization of our dreams.2 Therefore anarchists have always been heretics and blasphemers, deserters of all orthodoxies, enemies of clerics, and sometimes burners of shrines and temples.
But anyone who loves freedom and dignity can find no complicity among atheists who replace religion with the worship of scientific and technological progress – which has colonised and devastated the whole planet to feed its ghostly meat-grinder, the economy.
Areïon, the author of a new book “Warline, Howling, Pure” (Contagion Press, 2024) will present some stores of rebels who have fought against domination, with looted weapons or bare hands, armed also with spiritual convictions that animated their fight against colonisation and domesticiation.
“From the day when battery-run voices began broadcasting old speeches to battery-run listeners, the beast has been talking to itself. Having swallowed everyone and everything outside itself, the beast becomes its own sole frame of reference. It entertains itself, exploits itself and wars on itself. It has reached the end of its Progress, for there is nothing left for it to progress against except itself. […]
“Leviathan is turning into Narcissus, admiring its own synthetic image in its own synthetic pond, enraptured by its spectacle of itself. It is a good time for people to let go of its sanity, its masks and armors, and go mad, for they are already being ejected from its pretty spoils.”
Direct Action of Second Road Blockade by Anarchist Affinity. (03/24/2025)
The darkness of Makassar City, South Sulawesi, made us who are members of Anarchist Affinity carry out a second road blockade action, with the same goal, namely as a response to the ratification of the Military Law or the implementation of the Military Junta. If we remain silent, it is the same as surrendering ourselves to be killed in vain. Therefore, we are carrying out a rebellion, this is a small resistance that we are carrying out even though on the other hand we are preparing for a bigger resistance. We are sure that what we are doing will be a reckoning for those who dare to disturb (the government and the fascists). “If they dare to disturb us, then we also dare to disturb them” This is an early warning from us, and we will soon come with a bigger explosion of course.
