Didi Syafirdi, Jakarta – Only half a day after being inaugurated as the president and vice president for 2009-2014, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Boediono are being urged to solve five key problems in the first 100 days of the new administration.

This request was conveyed during an action by the All Indonesia Student Executive Council (BEM-SI) in front of the State Palace on Tuesday October 20.

The five demands took up a number of issues. First, the allocation of 20 percent of the budge for education, the annulment of the Education Legal Entity law and opposing the national exam system. Second, following up the Supreme Audit Agency’s audit of Century Bank and maintaining the powers of the Corruption Eradication Commission. Third, an even distribution of development, particularly in less developed areas. Fourth, improving the people’s welfare and finally, upholding human rights.

During the action, around 500 students wearing university jackets brought a huge banner reading “We will be a permanent opposition” and posters reading “We want to meet the president”.

The protest was closely guarded by around 100 police supported by military police and fully soldiers wearing camouflage uniforms. (amd/nrl)

[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]