Indonesia president vows no retreat during deadly protests

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto vowed to “not retreat even a step” after violent protests over lawmakers’ allowances left at least four people dead and sparked nationwide unrest.

After visiting victims at a hospital in east Jakarta, Prabowo said the violence was instigated by "rioters, not protesters," accusing these groups of attempting to destabilise the nation.

Since the clashes began, 43 people have been treated in hospitals, including 14 police officers and three civilians, with 17 still under care. One woman was severely injured when rioters seized her motorcycle.

“Their intention is not to voice aspirations. Their intention is to cause chaos, disrupt people’s lives and sabotage national development efforts aimed at ending poverty,” Prabowo said.

Prabowo praised police officers wounded in the clashes and announced extraordinary promotions for those injured. He also criticised the vandalism of the parliament building, calling it an attack on democracy.

In response to the unrest, political parties have agreed to reduce lawmakers’ benefits and impose a moratorium on overseas working visits.

Prabowo cancelled his trip to China due to the protests. The violence escalated after a police armored vehicle struck and killed 21-year-old motorcycle taxi driver Affan Kurniawan. The president ordered a full investigation into the incident, pledging that any officers found at fault would be held accountable.

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