Indonesia Protests Erupt After Ride-Sharing Driver’s Death
Demonstrations across multiple cities turned violent after a police vehicle struck a ride-hailing driver, igniting public outrage over economic hardship and political privileges.
Driver’s Death Sparks Nationwide Protests
Mass demonstrations erupted across Indonesia on Friday after 21-year-old ride-hailing driver Affan Kurniawan was fatally struck by a police vehicle during a protest in Jakarta. Dozens of cities, including Surabaya, Bandung and Medan, saw crowds demanding justice and broader reforms.
Clashes with Security Forces
Police fired tear gas and water cannons as some protesters hurled Molotov cocktails, fireworks and rocks. In central Jakarta’s Kwitang district, demonstrators attempted to block a police convoy and were met with further gas and warnings from marine and army units.
Calls for Accountability and Reform
At Kurniawan’s Jakarta funeral, attended by prominent politicians and police officials, President Prabowo Subianto expressed shock and apologized for the officers’ actions. The Jakarta governor also offered condolences and financial support to the family.
On Friday, seven members of the Mobile Brigade Corps were found to have breached professional conduct rules and face internal investigations.
Driving Factors Behind the Unrest
Protesters voiced anger over high living costs, low wages and new monthly allowances of 50 million rupiah ($3,030) for lawmakers, nearly ten times Jakarta’s minimum wage. Demonstrators called for stronger anti-corruption measures and economic relief.
Wider Impact and Solidarity
Drone footage showed thousands of delivery riders, many wearing Gojek’s green jackets, turning out in solidarity. The company pledged support to Kurniawan’s family, highlighting the human toll behind each ride.
The protests reflect deep public frustration over economic hardship and political privileges, marking a critical test for Indonesia’s new administration.
This topic was reported by BBC News.
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