Commemorating the International Labor Day or May Day, thousands of honorary teachers joined in the demonstration held in front of the State Palace on Jalan Merdeka Utara, Thursday (5/1). In their action, those honorary teachers demanded the government to immediately induct them as civil servants (PNS).

Up until now, we have not received equal welfare. This demonstration is a form of our resistance to the President against slavery done by state agencies

“We support your candidacy as president candidate and vice president candidate. Come on Mr. Jokowi, come on Mr. Prabowo. After one of them elected, then we will propose a MoU (Memorandum of Understanding),” expressed one of honorary teachers from Bogor.

According to that teacher, all this time the government only gives promises without proving any of it. Whereas, most of honorary teachers have served up to 20 years.

“ Up until now, we have not received equal welfare. This demonstration is a form of our resistance to the President against slavery done by state agencies . What does the world say? Indonesian government is still enslaving honorary workers serving in state agencies. The honorary workers are only paid Rp 100 thousand per month. Our country is rich but the honorary workers are poor,” he uttered.

These thousands of honorary teachers came from a number of areas, such as Bogor, Bekasi, Pandeglang, and Tangerang. Besides orating, they are also performing martial art in front of the State Palace.

Meanwhile, Head of Gambir Sub-District, Henri Perez, asks the protesters not to do anarchy acts.

“Please, march with joy and not being anarchic. Stay respect the country and good luck,” he said.