Last Updated:
Demonstrations have at some places escalated into violence, with reports of looting, arson, and attacks on regional government buildings.
Indonesia has been witnessing massive protests nationwide (Reuters image used for representation)
Indonesia is currently witnessing widespread anti-government protests that have escalated across the nation, leaving at least six people dead. Amid the growing unrest, President Prabowo Subianto on Sunday pledged to revoke lawmakers’ perks and privileges, including the controversial USD 3,000 monthly housing allowance.
By Monday, “lawmakers will see certain allowances scrapped and overseas work trips suspended under a new moratorium,” Subianto said, taking into consideration the public anger. He also cancelled a scheduled visit to China to focus on the domestic crisis.
Recommended Stories
The nationwide protest began on Monday in Jakarta over reports that all 580 lawmakers receive a monthly housing allowance of 50 million rupiah (USD 3,075) in addition to their salaries.
Death Of Youth Fuels Protest
Tensions escalated further after a 21-year-old ride-hailing driver, Affan Kurniawan, died after being run over by a police armoured vehicle during demonstrations. A video of the incident also went viral on social media platforms, intensifying anger against authorities and adding momentum to the protest.
Protest Across The Nation Turns Violent
Major cities, including Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, and others, are witnessing massive protests. Demonstrations have at some places escalated into violence, with reports of looting, arson, and attacks on regional government buildings. The unrest has resulted in at least six deaths and thousands of arrests nationwide.
Government’s Response
In response to the growing tensions across the country, President Prabowo Subianto pledged to revoke lawmakers’ housing allowances and suspend their overseas trips. At the same time, the government has taken a firm stance against violent protesters, labelling some actions as potentially leaning towards treason and terrorism. Security forces have been deployed to restore order.
“The rights to peaceful assembly should be respected and protected. But we cannot deny that there are signs of actions outside the law, even against the law, even leaning towards treason and terrorism,” Prabowo said in a speech in Jakarta.
About the Author
Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom. She covers both national and international news. For more stories, you can follow her…Read More
Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom. She covers both national and international news. For more stories, you can follow her… Read More
Loading comments…
Read More
