Understanding the widespread protests occurring across Indonesia, centered around lawmakers' excessive benefits and privileges.
In the heart of Indonesia, protests have erupted and spread from Jakarta to various cities, ignited by public outrage over a contentious housing allowance received by all 580 members of the House of Representatives. The allowance, amounting to 50 million rupiah (US$3,075) per month, is nearly 10 times the minimum wage in Jakarta and has been met with criticism as excessive and insensitive, particularly in the face of a soaring cost of living, taxes, and rising unemployment.
The cause of the unrest has been the subject of intense debate. President Prabowo Subianto, on one hand, has accused "rioters, not protesters," of trying to destabilize the nation and cause chaos. On the other hand, analysts view the violent rallies as a culmination of public anger over economic hardship, public officials' insensitivity, and political frustration.
The protests have taken a tragic turn, resulting in seven deaths, including that of 21-year-old ride-hailing driver Affan Kurniawan, who was killed during a rally in Jakarta. An armored car from the Mobile Brigade unit of the National Police reportedly ran over him, causing his death. The search results do not provide the name of the person under police investigation in connection with Kurniawan's death.
The violent protests have caused losses of up to 55 billion rupiah ($3.3 million) as rioters burned buses and subway stations and damaged other infrastructure. Protesters have also set fire to regional parliament buildings, police headquarters, and engaged in looting and burning of vehicles.
President Subianto has expressed concern over the escalating nationwide protests, cancelling a trip to China to attend the Victory Day Parade. In a show of solidarity, he visited 14 officers and three civilians still receiving treatment for serious injuries at the hospital. Among the injured, 43 victims have been treated at the Bhayangkara police hospital since the clashes began.
In response to the public outcry, the government has announced plans to cut lawmakers' perks and privileges, including the contentious housing allowance, and suspend overseas trips for members of parliament. Authorities have also detained 1,240 rioters after five days of protests in Jakarta.
The protests have grown wider and more violent following Kurniawan's death. A woman who was on her way to a market suffered a broken thigh after rioters seized her motorcycle. Subianto has ordered security forces to take firm action against the protests, citing unlawful acts, treason, and terrorism. However, he has also called on the public to express their aspirations in a peaceful and constructive manner.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the violent protests, the government's response and the public's reaction will be closely watched, as this situation presents a major test for President Subianto and the future of Indonesian politics.
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