Archive · 2 Jan 2026
Indonesian Critics Receive Threats After Flood Criticism
Some people in Indonesia who criticized the government's handling of big floods received scary threats.
One person got a Molotov cocktail that didn't explode, another found a dead chicken with a threatening note, and someone else's car was spray-painted.
These people had been speaking out about how the government managed the floods, which killed over 1,000 people.
Many human rights groups say these threats are bad for democracy and free speech.
The government hasn't said much about it yet, but the president has said criticism is okay as long as it's helpful.
Indonesian government critics received threats, including a Molotov cocktail and dead chickens.
The incidents followed criticism of the government's response to severe flooding in northern Sumatra.
Victims include Ramond Donny Adam, Leonard Simanjuntak, and Sherly Annavita.
Human rights groups condemn the threats as attacks on democratic values and free speech.
The government has not yet responded to the incidents, but the president allows constructive criticism.
- Who
- Indonesian government critics, including Ramond Donny Adam, Leonard Simanjuntak, and Sherly Annavita
- What
- Threats, including a Molotov cocktail, dead chickens, and intimidating messages
- When
- December 30-31, 2023
- Where
- Indonesia, specifically Jakarta and northern Sumatra
- Why
- Criticism of the government's response to severe flooding in northern Sumatra
- Incident Date
- December 30-31, 2023
- Victims
- Ramond Donny Adam, Leonard Simanjuntak, Sherly Annavita
- Government Response
- No immediate comment from Jakarta police or presidential office
- President's Stance
- Criticism allowed but must be constructive
- Human Rights Groups
- 91 groups, including Southeast Asia Freedom of Expression Network
- Flood Impact
- More than 1,000 deaths in northern Sumatra