What Sparked Indonesia's Outrage After a Delivery Driver's Death?

Mass protests in Indonesia have escalated dramatically in recent weeks, resulting in violence, fatalities, and widespread unrest triggered by rising living costs and perceived political corruption. Demonstrators have voiced their anger against the government, particularly following the controversial increase in allowances for parliament members amid an ongoing economic crisis affecting ordinary citizens.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Protests began in Jakarta on 25 August due to rising costs of living and excessive pay for politicians.
• The death of a young motorbike driver during clashes intensified public outrage.
• At least seven people have died amidst the escalating violence.
• President Prabowo has taken steps to cut some parliamentary perks, but many feel reforms are insufficient.
• Authorities have faced criticism for excessive force in handling protests.

Background of the Protests

The unrest in Indonesia is rooted in widespread dissatisfaction with the government, primarily due to the recent decision to raise allowances for members of parliament. Reports indicate that these officials receive over 100 million rupiah (£4,499; $6,150) monthly, which is more than 30 times the average income for Indonesians. This disparity has exacerbated public frustration, particularly during a time when many are grappling with a rising cost of living.

The Trigger: Affan Kurniawan's Death

The protests gained significant momentum following the tragic death of Affan Kurniawan, a 21-year-old motorcycle rideshare driver, who was killed by police during a demonstration. His death sparked outrage, leading to increased participation in protests across the country and amplifying calls for accountability and justice.

Public Sentiment and Systemic Issues

Dr Eve Warburton from the Australia National University highlights that the government's austerity measures have left many feeling economically insecure. The notion that politicians would see their incomes rise while the public struggles has led to widespread anger. This sentiment is echoed by Vedi Hadiz, a professor at the University of Melbourne, who notes that the political elite appear disconnected from the everyday struggles of citizens.

Government Response and Political Reforms

In an attempt to address the growing unrest, President Prabowo announced a reduction in some state-funded perks for politicians. While this move was welcomed by many protesters, there are concerns that it does not sufficiently tackle the underlying issues of inequality and governance that fuel public discontent.

The Role of Violence and Law Enforcement

As protests escalated, instances of violence and property destruction became more prevalent. Protesters set fire to regional legislative council buildings, and looting occurred in various areas, including Jakarta. The government's response has been a mix of dialogue and force, raising concerns about police brutality and the potential for human rights violations.

Future of the Protests

As the situation evolves, the future of the protests remains uncertain. Experts suggest that the current movement could be a pivotal moment for Indonesia, reflecting deeper-seated grievances than previous protests. The ability of President Prabowo to navigate this crisis may define his presidency and the future of governance in Indonesia.

Historical Context: Reformasi and Its Relevance Today

The current unrest has drawn comparisons to the Reformasi movement that followed the fall of Suharto in 1998. This earlier wave of protests led to significant political changes and the establishment of a democratic framework. Analysts suggest that today’s protests, fuelled by economic insecurity and a sense of injustice, might represent a similar turning point for Indonesia.

The Impact of Social Media and Communication

In response to the unrest, platforms like TikTok have suspended live streaming in Indonesia to mitigate the risk of mass mobilisation and inflammatory content. This highlights the role of social media in organising protests and disseminating information, as well as the government's attempts to control narratives during such volatile situations.

Conclusion: A Call for Change

As protests continue, the demand for accountability, transparency, and systemic reform remains strong. Whether the government will respond adequately to these calls for change will be critical in determining the future stability of Indonesia.

With the backdrop of economic challenges and a disillusioned public, the situation in Indonesia serves as a potent reminder of the importance of responsive governance that prioritises the needs of its citizens over elite interests. Will the government heed the people's call for change, or will the cycle of unrest continue? #IndonesiaProtests #PoliticalReform #SocialJustice

FAQs

What triggered the protests in Indonesia?

The protests were primarily triggered by the government's decision to increase allowances for parliamentarians amid a cost-of-living crisis affecting ordinary citizens.

How many people have died during the protests?

As of now, at least seven people have died as a result of the protests, with ongoing violence raising concerns about public safety.

What actions has the government taken in response to the protests?

The Indonesian government has announced plans to cut some perks for politicians and has increased police and military presence to manage the protests.

How does the current unrest compare to past protests in Indonesia?

Many experts believe the current protests are among the most significant since the Reformasi movement, reflecting deeper economic grievances and widespread public discontent.

What role does social media play in the protests?

Social media has been instrumental in organising protests and spreading information, but the government has taken steps to limit its use to control the narrative and mitigate unrest.