The use of symbols not an insult, expert says

Powerful images: Protesters hold a poster of bribery suspect Anggodo wearing a police uniform at a rally in Jakarta. JP/P.J. Leo

University of Indonesia communications expert Ade Armando reminds us that in a democratic context, the symbols used in political demonstrations merely express protestors’ disapproval of a particular situation.

“It’s appropriate [to use symbols] in a democratic state, people should not respond [to their use] excessively,” Ade tells The Jakarta Post.

Ade adds that in the past, the act of defaming a state symbol such as the President or the Garuda, was punishable under the Criminal Code — a tool often used by authorities to muffle dissident voices in the community.

“And authoritarian leaders like Soeharto found the articles in the Criminal Code very useful. But things changed when the Constitutional Court [MK] annulled the articles in the Criminal Code,” says Ade.

Therefore, Ade suggests it would be wiser for the government to respond with moderation when symbols (believed to be offensive) are used.

“If Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono continues to challenge the use of symbols in protests, it will be a set back for the nation. SBY was democratically elected, 60 percent of the people voted for him, which means another 40 percent did not. So it’s to be expected that his administration will come under criticism,” he explains.

Moreover, Ade says, as long as there is no violence or damage at a protest, a more appropriate response would be to appreciate the rally for what it is. The buffalo was just used as a tool to express anger and disapproval, Ade continues.

“After all, the buffalo was just a symbol. I have now heard demonstrators are no longer permitted to bring animals to protests. If it’s true, then it’s a joke!”

Ade points to other instances where sharp criticism was aimed at previous leaders of the country — former presidents BJ Habibie, Megawati Soekarnoputri, and Abdurrahman “Gus Dur” Wahid. Megawati was the only one out of the three to respond strongly.

“Habibie and Gus Dur didn’t react when they were insulted… because they knew it was just a way for demonstrators to express their political views,” he explained.

Had SBY remained silent about the use of the buffalo, and had focused on the essence of the demonstration instead, Ade remarks, he would have looked cool in the eyes of the people.

“Another reason SBY may have taken offense [to the use of a buffalo] is that as an only child, he may not be used to criticism. As a military general, he might not be used to the democratic climate prevalent in the country now, “says Ade.

Tough times lie ahead for President SBY, given the problems he has already been facing until now.

“His communication advisors should therefore remind him to stay calm during these turbulent times and earn brownie points from the community,” says Ade.