Indonesia has stirred significant controversy by posthumously awarding former authoritarian leader Suharto the title of national hero. This decision, made during a ceremony presided over by President Prabowo Subianto, has ignited accusations of historical revisionism and sparked protests from pro-democracy activists and families of victims of Suharto’s regime.

Ceremony and Award Details
The award was conferred on Monday morning, with President Prabowo handing the title to Suharto’s daughter and son. During the ceremony, an announcer described Suharto as a "prominent figure" who played a crucial role during Indonesia's struggle for independence from colonial powers in 1945. Prabowo, who has previously expressed admiration for Suharto, has faced criticism for the increasing military influence in civilian governance since taking office last year.

Historical Context of Suharto's Rule
Suharto ruled Indonesia for over three decades, a period characterized by widespread corruption, censorship, and severe human rights violations. He was ousted in 1998 following mass protests amid an economic crisis. His regime is particularly notorious for the massacre of suspected Communists in the mid-1960s, an event that is widely considered one of the largest genocides in history. Suharto passed away in 2006 at the age of 86.

Government Justifications and Activist Reactions
Officials, including Indonesia's culture minister Fadli Zon, have defended the decision to honor Suharto, citing his military contributions during the independence struggle. Zon denied any involvement of Suharto in the mass killings associated with his rise to power. However, activists have condemned the move, calling it a blatant attempt to whitewash historical atrocities. Usman Hamid from Amnesty International Indonesia expressed outrage, labeling the honor as "utterly absurd."

Protests Erupt in Jakarta
The announcement has led to protests in Jakarta, where demonstrators gathered near the presidential palace holding signs condemning the recognition of Suharto. Some protestors emphasized the need for justice for the victims of human rights abuses during his regime, highlighting the ongoing societal divisions regarding the legacy of Suharto’s rule.

Wrap-up
The decision to honor Suharto as a national hero has reignited debates about Indonesia's past and the challenges of reconciling historical narratives with contemporary democratic values. As protests continue, the government faces increasing pressure from civil society to address the historical injustices associated with Suharto's regime.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team