Aceh flag clash exposes frustration over central govt’s slow flood recovery

A clash erupted in Banda Aceh after a flag connected to a former separatist movement replaced the national flag at the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque, fueling tensions ahead of Indonesia's Independence Day. The conflict occurred during the annual "Aceh Peace Day" remembrance event at the mosque, marking more than two decades since a peace deal ended a bloody separatist conflict.

A young man reportedly climbed the flagpole and swapped the Indonesian flag for the crescent moon and star flag, which holds historical significance and remains politically sensitive. Security personnel ordered the flag removed before firing warning shots. The gunfire caused panic, leading some to chase the troops to the legislative office, where a group threw stones at both military and police.

Police responded with water cannons and tear gas, dispersing the crowd. One participant was hospitalized with a head injury, and a soldier's motorcycle was burned. Aceh Police detained several individuals, though they later released them. The province's administration reported seven people were injured in the clash.