Indonesia: Indonesia urged to release activists

ABC Radio Australia - Amnesty International has criticised Indonesia for persecuting political activists including those who display separatist symbols in restive areas such as Maluku.

The human rights group called for the release of at least 22 activists charged with "rebellion" for planning a peaceful rally and possessing the outlawed South Maluku Republic flag and membership cards.

They face a maximum penalty of life in prison under Indonesia's harsh laws against sedition.

Local sources say the activists had material on alleged human rights violations in Maluku and had planned to demonstrate during a visit to the area by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono earlier this month.