Brilio.net - Right on Thursday (22/8), almost all elements of Indonesian society are scheduled to hold demonstrations in several regions. Not without reason, the demonstration is a response to the attitude of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) which revised the Regional Election Law by ignoring the decision of the Constitutional Court (MK) with Case Number 760/PUU-XXII/2024 regarding the threshold for regional head candidacy requirements.
In the Constitutional Court's decision, it was stated that there was a conflict with the 1945 Constitution (UUD) in the contents of Article 40 paragraph 1 of Law Number 10 of 2016 concerning the Second Amendment to Law Number 1 of 2015 concerning the Stipulation of Government Regulation in Lieu of Law Number 1 of 2014 concerning the Election of Governors, Regents, and Mayors.
The Constitutional Court decided that the threshold for regional head nominations is no longer 25% of the votes of political parties or a combination of political parties from the previous DPRD Legislative Election, or 20% of DPRD seats. In addition, the Constitutional Court also decided to equate the threshold for regional head nominations from political parties with the threshold for independent regional head nominations as regulated in Articles 41 and 41 of the Regional Election Law.
Looking at the Constitutional Court's decision , the Indonesian House of Representatives is suspected of trying to annul (not consider it valid) the Constitutional Court's decision, where the House of Representatives and the government are instead revising the Regional Election Law at the same time. In fact, the decision issued by the Constitutional Court is final and binding, so it cannot be challenged by any party. Given that the Constitutional Court's decision is final and binding, every state institution and society must respect and honor the decision so that the previous law cannot be revised.
As a result, the public who saw the attempt to hijack the Constitutional Court's decision were abuzz with posts of a blue Garuda with the words "Emergency Warning" with the hashtag #KawalPustusMK echoing across various social media and corners of the city. The call for action to take to the streets to guard the decision became a massive action that is happening at this time.
Regardless of the political polemics that occur, for those of you who volunteer to join the demonstration, there are several things that must be prepared, the goal is to keep you safe while taking part in the street action. So what should be prepared? Let's see the full review below!
Things to prepare when participating in a demonstration.
photo: X/@vincentrcrd
1. Physical and mental preparation
Make sure your body is healthy and fit before joining a demonstration. Demonstrations often take a long time, involve a lot of physical activity such as walking long distances, standing for long periods, and can even take place in extreme weather conditions.
In addition, mental readiness is needed. Because demonstrations can be a stressful situation. It is important to prepare mentally to stay calm and focused, especially when faced with potential conflicts or unexpected situations.
2. Appropriate clothing
Wear comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the weather. Avoid flashy clothing that may attract too much attention. It is better to wear closed clothing that protects from the sun or bad weather, as well as comfortable footwear for walking.
3. Mask and glasses
Masks are not only for protection from viruses, but can also protect against tear gas. Goggles (especially swimming goggles) can protect the eyes from tear gas or dust.
4. Bring a drinking bottle
During the demonstration, of course, you will be jostling with other participants. So, it is better to prepare personal ammunition so that you do not get dehydrated. In addition, bring at least two bottles of water to drink and rinse your face if exposed to tear gas
photo: X/@tanyakanrl
5. Do not use contact lenses
It is better not to wear makeup or contact lenses. Because, it is feared that chaos will occur and exposure to tear gas.
6. Wear a hat
Prepare a hat to protect yourself from the sun while taking part in the demonstration on the streets. By wearing a hat you can avoid headaches due to excessive exposure to sunlight.
7. Bring a small tube of toothpaste
Toothpaste serves as a tool that helps you relieve the stinging sensation when exposed to tear gas. Also, don't forget to bring first aid health equipment.
8. Small towel
Lastly, don't forget to bring a small towel, wet tissue, and keris tissue. The purpose is to rinse the dirt on the face or exposure to dust or tear gas if exposed.
Regardless, don't forget when participating in a demonstration you must maintain personal safety. Starting from your belongings to physical contact with strangers. Make sure not to move alone but join your friends to always stay safe and alert.