How did the court justify the treason charges against activists?

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Court Justified Treason Charges by Citing Threats to National Integrity

An Indonesian court justified treason charges against Papuan activists, including prominent leader Buchtar Tabuni, by asserting that their actions posed a threat to the country's integrity. The court stated that Tabuni, sentenced to 11 months in jail, used anti-racism protests as a pretext to advance his agenda for self-rule. Two student activists also received 10-month sentences, with the court linking their participation in demonstrations to treasonous activities.
Tabuni Accused of Using Protests for Independence Agenda

The court's ruling highlighted that Buchtar Tabuni, a key figure in the Papua independence movement, leveraged the anti-racism demonstrations that occurred last year. These protests, which began after Papuan students faced racial abuse and tear-gassing in Surabaya, were viewed by the panel as a platform for Tabuni to promote his objective of self-rule. His strategy reportedly involved both street demonstrations and social media campaigns to further this cause.
Actions Deemed a Threat to National Integrity

Presiding judge Sutarmo articulated the court's rationale by stating that the actions of individuals like Tabuni, if left unpunished, would constitute a significant threat to the unity and integrity of Indonesia. This perspective underpinned the treason charges, suggesting that the pursuit of self-determination through protest activities was fundamentally aimed at undermining the nation's sovereignty. The court's decision implies a direct link between the activists' demonstrations and an intent to destabilize the country.
Student Activists Implicated in Treasonous Activities

In addition to Buchtar Tabuni, two student activists were also convicted and sentenced to 10 months imprisonment for their involvement in the previous year's demonstrations. The court's judgment implied that their participation was not merely a response to racial discrimination but was connected to broader treasonous activities. This framing suggests that the authorities viewed the widespread protests as more than just expressions of grievance, but as potential catalysts for separatism.

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How did the court justify the treason charges against activists?

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