JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – The acquittal of Septia Dwi Pertiwi marks a significant victory in the ongoing fight for freedom of expression in Indonesia. Septia, who was acquitted of defamation charges related to her criticism of the leadership at her former workplace, has garnered praise from human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, for standing up to oppressive laws and defending her right to speak out.

Usman Hamid, Executive Director of Amnesty International Indonesia, applauded the ruling, calling it a victory not just for Septia but for all citizens of Indonesia. “Septia’s release is a triumph for freedom of expression,” Hamid said. “The criminalization of Septia for voicing her concerns as an employee fighting for her rights is a threat to everyone. This case is an example of how laws meant to protect the public can be used to stifle speech and undermine our fundamental freedoms.”

This ruling comes at a time when the misuse of Indonesia’s Electronic Information and Transactions Law (UU ITE) continues to be a major concern. The law has been criticized for being used to silence individuals who criticize powerful institutions, making Septia’s case a critical moment in the broader struggle to reform such laws.

Amnesty International stressed that Septia’s acquittal highlights the ongoing dangers posed by the UU ITE, which continues to be weaponized against those who speak out against injustice. Despite two revisions to the law, critics argue that it still poses a significant threat to free speech, as evidenced by cases like Septia’s.

Septia’s case is not an isolated one. Other individuals, including Haris Azhar and Fatia Maulidiyanti, were also acquitted in January 2024, and Daniel Frits Tangkilisan was similarly cleared by a court in May 2024. These rulings signify a growing recognition of the dangers the UU ITE poses to freedom of expression.