Sukarni

Sukarni (1916-1971) was an Indonesian nationalist, independence activist, and politician. His full name was Sukarni Kartodiwirjo. He is best known for his role in the "kidnapping" of Sukarno and Hatta to Rengasdengklok on August 16, 1945, one day before Indonesia's Proclamation of Independence.

Sukarni was born in Blitar, East Java. He became involved in nationalist movements at a young age and joined various political organizations, advocating for Indonesia's independence from Dutch colonial rule. He was a radical figure, often favoring direct action and revolutionary tactics.

The Rengasdengklok incident was a crucial moment in Indonesian history. Sukarni, along with other young activists, believed that Sukarno and Hatta, the leading figures of the independence movement, were hesitating in declaring independence due to pressure from the Japanese. They took them to Rengasdengklok to urge them to proclaim independence immediately, free from any Japanese influence. This event pushed Sukarno and Hatta to declare Indonesia's independence on August 17, 1945.

After independence, Sukarni played a role in the Indonesian government. He founded the Murba Party and served as a diplomat. Sukarni was a complex and controversial figure, but he remains an important figure in the history of Indonesia's struggle for independence. He was declared a National Hero of Indonesia in 1971.