Indonesian Activist’s Pretrial Detention Upheld Amidst Claims of political Targeting
A Jakarta court on Monday, October 27, 2025, rejected the pretrial application of Delpedro Marhaen, Director of the Lokataru Foundation, clearing the way for continued investigation into allegations he incited a demonstration that turned chaotic in August 2025. The decision sparked a visible emotional response from Marhaen’s family and drew support from several civil society organizations.
The ruling came during a hearing at the South Jakarta district Court (PN), where the judge determined that the actions taken by investigators were in accordance wiht legal procedures. This means the investigation led by Polda Metro Jaya will proceed, despite Marhaen’s legal team arguing the suspect determination and search procedures violated the Criminal Procedure Code and a 2014 Constitutional Court decision (Number 21/PUU-XII/2014).
Outside the courtroom, the atmosphere was charged with emotion. Magda Antista, Marhaen’s mother, was reportedly “hysterical” following the judge’s decision, according to monitoring by cnnindonesia.com. She was seen crying and embraced by her husband, Deny Rismansyah, who vehemently proclaimed his son’s innocence.
“My son is not guilty, my son is only defending the people. Why are you tyrannizing? I will sue you in the afterlife, O Allah,” Rismansyah shouted, expressing his outrage at the proceedings.
Marhaen was arrested at his residence on September 1,2025,and has been held under investigation as. Authorities allege he incited the demonstration that descended into chaos at the end of August. His defense team challenged the basis of his arrest, arguing procedural irregularities.
The pretrial application specifically contested the validity of his designation as a suspect and the methods used during searches conducted by the police. Though, the court sided with the prosecution, upholding the legality of the investigative steps taken thus far.
The case has drawn attention from human rights and civil society groups. Representatives from SAFEnet, KontraS, and LBH Jakarta were present outside the court building to demonstrate their support for Marhaen. Their presence underscores concerns about potential restrictions on freedom of assembly and expression in Indonesia.
[Gambas:Video CNN]
The continuation of the investigation at Polda Metro Jaya raises questions about the future of Marhaen’s case and the broader implications for activists and defenders of civil liberties in the region. The outcome will be closely watched by organizations dedicated to protecting essential rights and ensuring due process under the law.
Expanded News Report:
Why: Delpedro marhaen, Director of the Lokataru Foundation, is facing investigation for allegedly inciting a demonstration that turned chaotic in August 2025. The case is viewed by many as a potential attempt to stifle dissent and restrict freedom of assembly in Indonesia.
who: Delpedro Marhaen is the central figure, a prominent activist and director of the Lokataru Foundation. Key players also include Magda Antista and Deny Rismansyah (Marhaen’s parents), representatives from SAFEnet, KontraS, and LBH Jakarta, the
