Are Student Demonstrations Purely Aspirational or Ridden by Third Parties ?

Are Student Demonstrations Purely Aspirational or Ridden by Third Parties?

Author, AbahRoy
Chairman of DPC Aswin, Cirebon City

The wave of student demonstrations that have occurred recently has given rise to various speculations. On the one hand, students are known as agents of change who are always at the forefront of overseeing government policies. However, on the other hand, the question arises: is this movement truly pure or are there third party interests riding on it?

Students took to the streets as a form of disappointment towards policies that were considered not in favor of the people. They criticized various issues, ranging from economic policies, social injustice, to democracy which was considered threatened. As a moral force, student movements often play a role in maintaining the balance of power so that it remains in accordance with the interests of the people.

However, it cannot be denied that in political dynamics, there is always the possibility of intervention from certain groups who want to take advantage of the momentum. Parties with political interests, economic interest groups, and even the opposition could support or even infiltrate this movement for their own agenda. This is not a new phenomenon in Indonesian political histo

Regardless of the alleged existence of a third party, the main essence that must be considered is the substance of the students’ demands. The government should not only focus on who is behind the action, but more on what is being voiced. If the students’ demands are true and on the side of the people, then what is needed is not just accusations, but a concrete response in the form of better policies.

The public also needs to be critical. Does this demonstration truly represent the interests of the people? Or are there hidden interests playing behind the scenes? What is clear is that democracy teaches that the voices of the people, including students, must be heard—not just suspected.

Cirebon, February 21, 2025

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