Jakarta Protests Erupt Over MP Allowances and Police Violence

In Jakarta, tension has escalated as riot police respond to protesting crowds throwing stones, utilizing tear gas and water cannons to disperse the unrest linked to the perceived excessive allowances of members of parliament and the ongoing issue of income inequality. Protests intensified following the tragic death of motorcycle taxi driver Affan Kurniawan, who was fatally struck by a police vehicle, prompting outraged citizens to demand accountability. His funeral saw thousands in attendance, while many gathered at the police headquarters seeking justice, further aggravating the situation.

The police confirmed that they had detained seven of their officers involved in the incident, issuing an apology for their actions. President Prabowo expressed his shock and disappointment regarding the police's excessive response and called for an investigation into the matter. This incident spurred approximately 1,000 motorcycle taxi drivers to storm a police facility in Surakarta, where some drivers labeled the police as "murderers," highlighting the surge of anger directed towards law enforcement.

Amid rising tensions, protesters engaged in confrontations with police forces and Brimob personnel. Reports indicate that numerous tear gas canisters were discharged within a short timeframe, leading to many demonstrators suffering from breathing difficulties. Public dissent remains strong in Jakarta, with thousands, including students and workers, rallying against the controversial monthly MP housing allowance, which stands at 50 million rupiah—nearly ten times the minimum wage in the city. Protesters are also pushing for increased wages, reduced taxes, and enhanced anti-corruption initiatives, in light of strict austerity measures imposed by President Prabowo that have resulted in cuts to education, health, and public services.

Protest actions are spreading beyond Jakarta to regions such as Jawa Barat, where demonstrators have gathered around bonfires and marched towards government buildings. In Surakarta, a protest march commenced, contributing to the nationwide dissatisfaction. Jakarta local police have reported incidents of protesters damaging public property, including flag burnings and vandalism of the parliament's infrastructure. With 351 protesters detained for such actions, police advised students to remain cautious and avoid being provoked by potentially dangerous social media calls urging protest participation.