Cipanas (ANTARA News) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono criticized some demonstrations that had taken place recently saying they ran against the spirit of democracy.

"I have heard reports about them. Should demonstrations in a Pancasila-based state that often boasts about its good civilization, culture and values be done like several days ago. Let us discuss (matters) well without hurting democracy, freedom of expression and others," the head of state said when discussing the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) at the presidential palace in Cipanas, West Java, on Tuesday.

He said he had heard many reports from various quarters about the rallies and he thought some were quite offensive.

"I can understand their aspriations but some of the rallies were plainly offensive," he said. For example, he said, some demonstrators using huge loudspeakers shouted "Pak SBY (Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono) a thief. Boediono (vice president) a thief. Ministers thieves."

The head of state also told about theatrical actions in the demonstrations he considered improper.

"Some carried a buffalo (to criticize SBY) which is fat, lazy and dumb. Is that freedom of expression. Then pictures of me were trampled or burned in many places. The case will be discussed with clear minds to save our democracy, our culture, civilization," he said.

In view of that President Yudhoyono called for the discussion of the case by the working group that discussed bureaucratic reform, law enforcement, democracy and security.

The working group was part of the six working groups set up in the working meeting discussing the RPJMN at the palace and which was also attended by provincial governors from across the country and cabinet ministers.

"The spirit is not to criple democracy. Democracy is part of reform, our ideal but it must be respectful, orderly and promoting unity and togetherness," he said.

From Tuesday until Wednesday Yudhoyono would lead the meeting to discuss various issues including evaluating the first 100 days of his administration, the implementation of the RPJMN and problems hindering development efforts.

The meeting was also attended by chiefs of state-owned companies and non-ministry state institutions.(*)