Education Minister Denies Abuse Claims Amid Protests

Indonesia's Education Minister Denies Abuse and Unfair Dismissal Allegations

Indonesia's Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Satryo Soemantri Brodjonegoro, has denied allegations of abuse and unfair dismissal that sparked protests among civil servants in Central Jakarta.

The protests erupted on Monday, January 20th, following dissatisfaction with Satryo's handling of employee rotations and allegations of verbal abuse and dismissals without due process.

In a meeting with the protesting civil servants, Satryo defended his actions, stating that the rotations were necessary to improve efficiency and work synergy, in line with President Prabowo Subianto's call for a more efficient budget. He emphasized his commitment to ensuring a fulfilling career for his staff.

The protests were fueled by concerns over the widespread reshuffling within the ministry, the abrupt dismissal of several employees, and an incident involving a staff member who was fired after a minor incident with office furniture.

Demonstrators held banners expressing their discontent, stating "We are civil servants, paid by the state, working for the state, not slaves of the family," and "State institutions are not Satryo and his wife's private companies."

Another banner appealed directly to the President, stating "Mr President, please save us from an angry minister who likes to slap and fire employees."

A voice recording circulating online allegedly captured Satryo scolding and slapping one of his ministry's vendors. However, Satryo denied the allegations, claiming the voice was not his.