Deadly Indonesia protests force u-turn on lawmakers' perks

Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto has announced the suspension of certain parliamentary perks, including a $3,000 monthly housing allowance, after widespread protests left at least six people dead. T

The demonstrations, which began earlier in the week, were triggered by public outrage over lawmakers’ high allowances amid rising living costs.

Riots intensified on Friday after 21-year-old ride-hailing driver Affan Kurniawan was killed when a police armored vehicle reportedly ran over him during a protest in Jakarta. Following the incident, student groups and citizens took to the streets, targeting state buildings and homes of political figures. Several structures, including a local parliament building, were set on fire.

Subianto called an emergency meeting with leaders of eight political parties and prominent religious figures, including former President Megawati Sukarnoputri. He announced that lawmakers’ overseas trips would be suspended and certain allowances would be cut. “These measures aim to respond to public concerns while ensuring protests remain peaceful,” he said.

Security forces were deployed to guard key government locations, including the Presidential Palace, and ministers’ residences received additional protection. Subianto emphasized that violent actions, such as looting or attacks on public property, could be considered violations of law and warned that such acts might be treated as treason or terrorism.

Student leaders criticized the concessions as insufficient, calling for deeper reforms addressing political inequality and economic disparities. Amnesty International’s Indonesia chapter described the president’s warnings about treason and terrorism as excessive.

Authorities confirmed that nationwide protests resulted in at least six fatalities, including Kurniawan and three people killed during the arson attack on the parliament building. The unrest has caused significant economic disruptions, with stock markets and the rupiah affected by the violence.

Subianto urged citizens to continue voicing their concerns through peaceful channels, assuring the public that the government is committed to addressing their grievances.

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