Palu – March 8 is International Women’s Day, which is commemorated throughout the world. In the Central Sulawesi city of Palu, scores of women from the Lembah Palu Women’s Union (SPLP) held a peaceful action on Monday evening in which they brought torches and banners opposing the oppression of women and children.

During the action the protesters took turns in giving speeches in which they condemned domestic violence, sexual harassment, rape and the human trafficking in women. They also demanded an end to basic commodity price hikes and a return to normal prices.

In addition to giving speeches, the demonstrators also distributed flowers and leaflets to passing drives. The leaflet contained a call to fight the oppression that impoverishes the ordinary people, particularly women and children.

After demonstrating for around two hours, the protest action disbanded peacefully. (ADO/Syamsuddin)

[Translated by James Balowski.]