Aceh security situation stabilizes after clashes during peace anniversary

Authorities and political leaders are addressing recent unrest in Aceh following clashes between protesters and police during the 21st Aceh Peace Day commemorations on August 15. The incidents involved the raising of the Bulan Bintang flag and resulted in confrontations near the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Banda Aceh.

Chief of Staff to the President, Dudung Abdurachman, stated that the situation has returned to being conducive and characterized the unrest as the actions of a few individuals exploiting the peace anniversary momentum. He emphasized that Aceh remains an integral part of the Republic of Indonesia. Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak added that the situation is under control and that the military is supporting the police in law enforcement without the need for additional personnel.

In contrast, the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) expressed regret over what it described as excessive and repressive responses by security forces. PDIP Secretary General Hasto Kristiyanto called for a calm approach, urging authorities to use dialogue rather than violence to address regional dynamics. He specifically criticized reports of warning shots being fired near places of worship, noting that peace in Aceh was achieved through a long and costly social process.