Haris Azhar, Fatia Maulidiyanti in Legal Spotlight: Defamation Case Tests Indonesia's Free Speech
By Karmactive Staff
Known for their human rights work, Haris Azhar and Fatia Maulidiyanti are entangled in a high-profile defamation lawsuit in Indonesia right now.
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The case is centered on a YouTube video that criticized the effects of mining operations on human rights in the Intan Jaya Regency of Papua.
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The activists are accused under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law, and if found guilty, they could spend up to six years behind bars.
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Human rights organizations from all throughout the world have voiced their concerns, viewing the case as a direct response to peaceful, legal activism.
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On March 6, 2023, the case file reached a turning point when it was turned over to the East Jakarta District Attorney's Office.
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Citing pertinent provisions of the Indonesian Criminal Code, the defense argues that the film is of public interest.
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The Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment of Indonesia, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, filed a slander lawsuit to start the judicial drama.
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The use of defamation laws against activists and the condition of free expression in Indonesia have become hot topics of discussion in light of this trial.