Sintang Protest: Demand for the Release of Empunak Keladan’s Village Chief

Image source: a poster from the demonstration committee.

The Dayak people today are different from the past. The Dayak are aware of their rights. Whoever they are, regardless of their rank or position, cannot act arbitrarily with the Dayak people.

A Stand for Justice: A Call for Action in Sintang
Unity for the People: The Fight for Fairness Continues

Sintang, December 17, 2024 – On Tuesday, December 17, 2024, a powerful demonstration will take place in Sintang, as citizens of the region gather to demand the release of the Village Chief of Empunak Keladan. 

The event will kick off at 8:00 AM, and will be held at Taman Entuyut, right outside the Sintang Regional Parliament Office. The protest aims to draw attention to what many perceive as an unjust legal situation facing the Village Chief, whose actions have long been in service of his community.

This rally is not only about one person—it’s a cry for justice that resonates throughout the entire Sintang community. The Village Chief of Empunak Keladan has long been a beloved leader, known for his commitment to improving his village and the surrounding area.

 However, he is now at the center of a legal case that many believe is unfair and politically motivated. Supporters feel strongly that his legal troubles are rooted in a larger issue of injustice that affects not just him, but the people he serves.

A Call for Solidarity: "We Need Everyone"
Participants in the demonstration are asked to show their pride by wearing traditional clothing from their respective regions, blending cultural pride with a call for justice. The dress code is informal yet respectful—designed to highlight the unity of the people in their fight for fairness. 

This protest is more than a political statement; it's a collective effort to ensure that everyone in Sintang is treated fairly, regardless of their position or status. "We need everyone to stand with us in this fight," said one of the protest leaders. "This isn’t just about one person, this is about the future of Sintang, about the rights of our people, and about justice for all."

This protest is expected to be a peaceful and organized display of solidarity, focusing on the core values of democracy and the respect for human rights. While the primary focus is the Village Chief’s release, the broader message is clear: everyone in Sintang deserves to have their voice heard and their rights respected. The rally is also a reminder that justice in Sintang should never be selective—it must be fair for all citizens, no matter their position in society.

The Fight for Justice: A Stronger Sintang Together
The demonstration is also a call to the Sintang government, urging local leaders to listen to the voices of the people and address their concerns with transparency and accountability. The organizers hope to see a positive response from Sintang’s authorities, emphasizing that true leadership is about standing up for fairness and doing what’s right, not just what’s easy.

The protest will serve as a platform for those who believe in justice and unity, inviting all those who want to see real change to join in the effort. It's a chance for everyone in Sintang to show that they care deeply about their community and their future. 

The organizers emphasize that this fight is not about division, but about coming together for the greater good of Sintang’s citizens. Everyone is welcome to participate and lend their support, whether physically at the protest or through online expressions of solidarity.

In closing, the goal of this rally is simple: justice. It’s a call for fairness in the legal system and a push for the leaders of Sintang to act in the best interest of their people. The demonstration is expected to be peaceful, yet loud, as Sintang’s citizens unite to demand the justice they deserve. (X-5)