A pig head was delivered to the offices of Indonesian media outlet Tempo, an act seen as an intimidation attempt against the independent publication. The incident follows criticism from President Prabowo Subianto, who accused Tempo of being part of foreign-funded efforts to destabilize the country.
The delivery of the pig’s head, which was specifically addressed to a female political journalist from Tempo, has raised concerns over press freedom in Indonesia. The targeted journalist Francisca Christy Rosana is well-known for her work on a popular podcast Bocor Alus Politik.
At the same time, protesters gathered outside Indonesia’s Press Council building, demanding action against Tempo and accusing the publication of working for “foreign agents,” including billionaire financier George Soros. The demonstration underscores the growing hostility toward independent media in the country.
Government Responds but Press Freedom Concerns Remain
Government spokesperson Philips Vermonte acknowledged the incident to CPJ, stating:
“We do not know exactly who did it and why the incident happened… Indonesia remains committed to maintaining and protecting freedom of the press and freedom of expression.”
Despite this assurance, many journalists and press freedom advocates fear that the climate of hostility toward independent media continues to worsen. The use of intimidation tactics, such as this gruesome threat, has a chilling effect on journalists, pushing many toward self-censorship.
Tempo’s History of Investigative Journalism and Government Backlash
Tempo has long been a leading voice in investigative journalism in Indonesia and has frequently clashed with the government. Most recently, the publication has been critical of President Prabowo’s policies, particularly the controversial multibillion-dollar free school meal program.
Tempo has faced government suppression before, having been banned twice under Suharto’s dictatorship. The outlet was relaunched in 1998 after Suharto’s fall and remains one of Indonesia’s most respected independent news sources.
This latest incident raises serious concerns over the state of press freedom in Indonesia. The attack on Tempo is widely viewed as part of a broader trend of media suppression and intimidation aimed at silencing independent journalism.