Pati protesters to bring antigraft demands to Jakarta

Hundreds of residents from Pati, Central Java, are prepared to march in Jakarta on Thursday, calling for the rapid approval of an asset forfeiture bill and harsher anti-corruption measures. The protest, organized by the United Pati People’s Alliance (AMPB), has been building since August 21, with people gathering in front of the Senayan Legislative Complex in Central Jakarta.

At least seven buses have brought additional residents from eastern and western Pati, with more buses expected prior to the demonstration. Suharno, a senior AMPB member, informed The Jakarta Post on Wednesday that two more buses containing over 100 people are on their way.

The protesters aim to push through two key demands: the swift passage of the long-delayed asset forfeiture bill and the imposition of the harshest penalties for corruption convicts. First introduced in 2008 but stalled for years, the asset forfeiture bill would allow the state to seize assets suspected of being criminal proceeds, even before a conviction.

While the bill could provide a tool to combat corruption, critics warn it may also be misused to target political opponents and facilitate extortion. The House began drafting the bill in January and is attempting to ensure its approval by December at the latest.