Amnesty International Indonesia condemns in the strongest terms the bomb attack in front of the Makassar Cathedral in South Sulawesi. The number of casualties remains unclear, but local police have confirmed at least one death.
The deliberate targeting and killing of women, men, and children going about their daily lives can never be justified and shows complete contempt for the most fundamental principles of human rights.
Those responsible must be brought to justice in proceedings which meet international standards of fairness and without resort to the death penalty.
The explosion occurred at around 10:20 AM local time on 28 March, while congregants were arriving for the cathedral’s 11:00 AM Palm Sunday mass. According to police, the bomber attempted to enter church grounds but was blocked by church security guards.
Although no group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack, this attack constitute a clear violation of national laws and abuse of the human rights to life and to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. The Indonesian authorities must immediately carry out an impartial and effective investigation in order to bring those responsible to justice, while ensuring that their response is in compliance with Indonesia’s obligations under international human rights law.
Jakarta, 28 March 2021
Usman Hamid
Executive Director, Amnesty International Indonesia