BALINEWSID.COM, DENPASAR – March 25, 2026, The Bali Advocacy Coalition for Democracy has criticized the legal proceedings against Aksi Kamisan Bali activist Tomy Priatna Wiria, describing the case as a strong indication of criminalization and repression of civil liberties.

In a press release, the coalition stated that from the outset, the handling of case Number 287/Pid.Sus/2026/PN Dps at the Denpasar District Court has lacked neutrality. It argued that the use of criminal law in this case appears to be aimed at silencing critical voices and weakening civil society movements in Bali.

The first hearing, held on March 17, 2026, was initially planned to take place online. However, the plan was rejected by both the coalition and the defendant. The objection was formally submitted to the Head of the Denpasar District Court, the Denpasar Prosecutor’s Office, and the Kerobokan Class IIA Correctional Facility.

According to the coalition, an online trial could limit the defendant’s rights, particularly in presenting an effective defense. The physical presence of the defendant, it said, is essential to ensure proper communication with legal counsel and a full understanding of the proceedings.

Following the objection, the trial was ultimately conducted in person. However, the coalition raised concerns over the presence of a large number of police officers around the courtroom, which it described as creating an intimidating atmosphere.

At around 11:00 a.m. local time, officers reportedly began arriving and specifically inquired about the case involving Tomy Priatna Wiria. As the defendant entered the courtroom, officers who had been stationed around the court complex gathered near the hearing room. The number of officers was estimated at around 20, all in full uniform.

The coalition said the security measures were unusual and reflected differential treatment compared to other defendants in similar cases. It warned that such conditions could undermine the principle of equality before the law and affect the independence of the court.

The coalition also criticized the indictment, saying it resembled patterns seen in the criminalization of activists in several regions, particularly following protests in August 2025. It argued that the charges tend to generalize events, broaden interpretations of actions, and blur the line between criminal conduct and political expression.

According to the coalition, the case should not be seen in isolation but as part of a broader pattern of criminalization against civil society.

During the hearing, groups of supporters were present to show solidarity. The coalition said this public support reflects wider concern, framing the case as an issue of civil liberties rather than merely a criminal matter.

In its statement, the coalition stressed that any form of intimidation during judicial proceedings constitutes a violation of fair trial principles and human rights. It also reminded authorities of the state’s obligation to uphold human rights protections as mandated by the constitution.

The Bali Advocacy Coalition for Democracy called for an end to what it described as intimidation by security forces, rejected the criminalization of Tomy Priatna Wiria, urged the panel of judges to remain independent, and called on prosecutors to refrain from practices that undermine the defendant’s rights.

The coalition also urged the public to continue monitoring the trial as part of broader efforts to maintain checks on power and safeguard democracy.