Widodo calls for calm after deadly post-election violence

DPA 22ND MAY, 2019- Six people were killed in the Indonesian capital when police clashed with protesters during a street rally triggered by the loss of opposition presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto, officials said on Wednesday.

Security forces fired tear gas and water cannon to disperse the protestors after some in the crowd began attacking personnel with stones and firecrackers at around midnight (1700 GMT) on Tuesday, police said.

Incumbent President Joko Widodo, who won the April 17 election according to an official vote count released earlier Tuesday, called for calm, but warned that strong action would be taken against rioters.

“I will not tolerate anyone who undermines security, the democratic process and the unity of our beloved nation,” he told a press conference.

He added that the situation was under control and called for citizens not to be too worried.

“Let’s restore unity and harmony because Indonesia is our common home,” he said.

Jakarta’s Governor Anies Basweden said six people were killed and another 200 people injured in overnight clashes.

National police chief Tito Karnavian confirmed six people died from injuries caused by bullets and blunt weapons, but said he believed security personnel were not responsible.

Protestors who have accused the Joko government of electoral fraud to secure his re-election had gathered since Tuesday in front of the Election Supervisory Agency in central Jakarta.

Security forces fired tear gas and water cannon to disperse the protestors after some in the crowd began attacking personnel with stones and firecrackers at around midnight (1700 GMT) on Tuesday, police said