When Protests Are Suspected of Being Paid, Students' Moral Trust Is at Stake
The controversy over allegations that students received money after protests has drawn a strong reaction from the Bung Karno University Alumni Association (IKA UBK). They put forward seven demands, including a public apology, calls for firm action if violations are proven, and a transparent investigation into those suspected of providing funds. IKA UBK stressed the importance of cleansing the student movement from any betrayal of the values of struggle.
The author sees these demands as an effort to save the honor and moral trust of the student movement, which for decades has been its main asset. He recalls times when protests were carried out selflessly, solely for the voice of the people's conscience. Now, if the public suspects every action can be bought, the moral legitimacy of the movement is at risk of collapsing.
IKA UBK also urged the formation of an independent team for an objective examination and called on students to remain critical and united without losing their moral compass. The author asserts, "If a struggle can be bought, then it is no longer a struggle." The voice of students must not have a price, no matter how times change.
https://www.gelora.co/2026/06/