Protests by discontented citizens, brutal government response, presidential action... four queries concerning the demonstrations that resulted in multiple fatalities in Indonesia
Indonesia is currently experiencing intense protests, the most significant in a decade, as reported by Berita Satu. The movement, which started in January, has been led by taxi drivers, students, truck drivers, and workers, and has gained momentum due to a series of issues plaguing the nation.
The protests were initially against significant budget cuts ordered by President Prabowo Subianto to fund a school meal program. However, the movement has evolved to encompass a broader range of grievances, including widespread anger over a planned housing allowance increase for members of parliament amid rising living costs and layoffs, alongside deep-rooted social inequality, corruption, and the killing of a 21-year-old motorcycle taxi driver by a police armored vehicle.
Images of Affan Kurniawan's death went viral and exacerbated anger against the police, marking a turning point in the movement. In response, President Prabowo Subianto promised a "transparent" investigation into Affan's death and announced plans to reduce controversial social benefits for lawmakers in response to the protests. Seven Brimob officers have been arrested for violating the code of ethics in the death of motorcycle taxi driver Affan Kurniawan.
The Brimob police force, historically known for its brutal methods, is criticized for using excessive force during street protests. The national police has benefited from significant funds to militarize since the election of President Prabowo Subianto in 2024. NGOs accuse the Brimob force of suppressing opponents and defending financial interests.
The protests in Indonesia have not been without violence. At least three people were killed in a fire during protests in Makassar, the largest city on the eastern island of Sulawesi. Another person was beaten to death by the crowd who suspected them of being an intelligence agent.
President Prabowo Subianto has canceled a planned trip to China for a military parade due to the ongoing protests. On Monday, several hundred protesters gathered outside the Parliament in Jakarta, protesting against new benefits granted to lawmakers, including a housing allowance of 50 million rupiah.
Bhima Yudhistira Adhinegara, executive director of the Economic and Legal Studies Center, analyses that discontent has also erupted due to a lack of empathy from lawmakers. President Prabowo Subianto is the son-in-law of former dictator Suharto, raising questions about the government's commitment to addressing the root causes of the protests.
As the protests continue, it remains to be seen whether President Prabowo Subianto's promises of reform will be enough to quell the public's anger and bring about lasting change in Indonesia.
