Saiful Mujani and Islah Bahrawi Reported to Police Over Alleged Plot to Overthrow Prabowo

Saiful Mujani and Islah Bahrawi have been reported to the Metro Jaya Regional Police following statements calling for the removal of President Prabowo Subianto. The report, filed on April 8, 2026, alleges that the two individuals engaged in incitement to rebel against general authorities.

The complaint was lodged by Robina Akbar of the East Jakarta Community Alliance. According to the Metro Jaya Regional Police, the report was registered under number LP/B/2428/IV/2026/SPKT/POLDA METRO JAYA and was received on the evening of April 8, 2026, at approximately 21:30 WIB.

Commissioner Budi Hermanto, the Head of Public Relations for the Metro Jaya Regional Police, confirmed that the report relates to Article 246 of Law Number 1 of 2023. This specific article of the Criminal Code addresses the act of inciting people to commit criminal acts or to rebel against general authorities through the use of violence, whether done orally or in writing in a public setting.

Details of the Incident

The legal action stems from statements made by Saiful Mujani and Islah Bahrawi during a halal bihalal event held on March 31, 2026, in the Utan Kayu area of Matraman, East Jakarta. During this event, Mujani reportedly called for the overthrow of President Prabowo Subianto’s government.

The calls for resistance were made in the presence of several activists and academics, including Ray Rangkuti and Feri Amsari. Portions of the speech were subsequently shared on social media, specifically via an Instagram account, which led to widespread discussion and criticism.

Robina Akbar stated that the remarks made by Mujani and Bahrawi exceeded the boundaries of freedom of opinion and had entered the realm of criminal activity. She argued that such statements are no longer mere opinions but fall under the category of criminal acts.

Legal Implications and Penalties

Under Article 246 of the Criminal Code, individuals found guilty of inciting rebellion against general authorities face significant legal penalties. The law stipulates that any person who publicly incites others to rebel with violence or commit criminal acts can be punished with a maximum of four years of imprisonment or a fine of up to category V.

The report follows a wave of criticism from various groups regarding the statements made by Saiful Mujani, the founder of SMRC. Political entities have also weighed in on the matter. the Golkar party criticized the remarks, suggesting that the public is the party most harmed by such rhetoric. Meanwhile, the PAN party characterized Mujani’s statements as buih di lautan (foam on the ocean), suggesting they do not represent a significant wave of opposition.

Political Context

The controversy occurs against a backdrop of scrutiny regarding President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership and historical ties. Subianto is a long-time supporter of the former regime of Suharto and was previously part of the Suharto family as a son-in-law. Some critics have expressed concerns that his administration may push for a return to military-style rule, reflecting the 32-year period of dictatorship under Suharto.

The current legal proceedings are being viewed by some, such as reports from Tempo.co, as accusations of treason following a discussion. Other perspectives, as noted by SINDOnews Nasional, suggest that the narrative of overthrowing the president promotes hatred and triggers national instability.