US Embassy Issues Travel Warning for Indonesian Election Announcement on May 22
Jakarta. The United States Embassy in Indonesia has issued a travel warning for its citizens traveling in Indonesia next week, cautioning them of expected street protests against the result of last month's presidential election by hardline supporters of presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto.
The General Elections Commission (KPU) is expected to make the announcement on May 22.
Incumbent President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo has a double-digit lead over Prabowo in the official tally, but the former Army general has refused to concede and vowed to take protest against what he said was a "fraudulent election" to the street.
The National Police has also issued a security warning, saying that terrorists affiliated with an Islamic State splinter cell, Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), are planning to wreak havoc during the protest in Jakarta.
"Avoid areas where demonstrations or political rallies are occurring and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any large gathering," the US Embassy said in a statement late on Friday.
The embassy expected demonstrations will take place near the KPU offices in Menteng and the Election Supervisory Board (Bawaslu) headquarters on Jalan Thamrin in Central Jakarta, as well as in election offices in Surabaya and Medan.
"Stay current with media coverage of local events, be aware of your surroundings, and practice personal security awareness at all times," the embassy said.
It also encourages US citizens to register on its Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and follow the embassy on Twitter and Facebook.
The police said they will put 32,000 officers on duty to secure the capital next week in anticipation of riots or terror attacks.
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