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Forced evictions inhumane, against the law: Activists
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A poster displayed near the debris of demolished houses aims to remind people of President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo’s promise to develop a kampung deret (elevated village) in Bukit Duri and other places when he was Jakarta governor with Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama as his deputy governor. (JP/Callistasia Anggun Wijaya)
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ctivists from 70 civil organizations nationwide grouped under Gema Demokrasi (Democratic Resonance) expressed their solidarity with Bukit Duri evictees, saying that the forced evictions were inhumane and against the law.
Dhyta Caturani, spokesperson of Gema Demokrasi, said activists would assist the residents until justice was served.
"We will stand together with the residents and support their decisions regarding the legal, social and political aspects of this case," Dhyta said in Bukit Duri, South Jakarta, on Thursday.
Following hot debate on social media between those who oppose and support the evictions, Dhyta urged the public to further examine the Jakarta administration's eviction plan.
"The public should look at the situation fairly and not just buy the administration’s version of the story. The residents in Bukit Duri were blamed for flooding, but other factors have caused flooding," she said.
She believed disorganized spatial planning in the city had exacerbated flooding. As an example, the administration kept issuing permits for the construction of malls and high buildings. Those buildings have eliminated the absorption area in the city, she said.
She also hoped the public would not let the forced evictions occur despite the administration offering low-cost housing. Aside from a place to live, residents need to maintain their livelihoods, she said. (bbn)
