In brief
Protests envelop major cities in Indonesia following the tragic death of a taxi driver, Affan Kurniawan, who was struck by a police vehicle. The unrest highlights mounting public discontent over economic conditions and government policies. Amidst the turmoil, calls for justice and accountability echo through the streets as demonstrators clash with police using tear gas and Molotov cocktails. President Prabowo Subianto’s administration now faces a critical test as it responds to public grievances.
Mass protests have broken out in cities across Indonesia with clashes between police and those in attendance following the death of a ride-sharing driver who was hit by a police vehicle on Thursday night.
Twenty-one-year-old Affan Kurniawan had been taking part in the action opposing housing perks for politicians and cost-of-living issues.
On Friday, tear gas and water cannons were fired at crowds gathering in the major cities of Jakarta and Surabaya, while some protesters threw Molotov cocktails and fireworks.
The unrest is seen as a key test for President Prabowo Subianto, with frustrations over a lack of jobs, low wages, high taxes, and rising living costs.
Affan Kurniawan's funeral took place on Friday, with his former colleagues accompanying him to his final resting place.
They were joined by Jakarta police chief Asep Edi Suheri, as well as politicians Rieke Dyah Pitaloka and former Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan, who expressed hope that the case would be thoroughly investigated but called delivery riders to stop their protests in order to maintain stability.
The police chief also repeated an apology.
As this was happening, protesters gathered outside the police headquarters to demand justice for his death.
An apology has also been issued to Mr. Kurniawan's family by President Prabowo, who said he was shocked and disappointed by the excessive actions of the officers.
The governor of Jakarta, Pramono Anung, also visited Mr. Kurniawan's family, expressing condolences and offering financial assistance for funeral arrangements.
Following Mr. Kurniawan's death, Gojek released a statement which read: Behind every green jacket, there's a family, prayers, and struggle. Affan Kurniawan was part of that journey, and his departure leaves a deep sorrow for all of us. The company added that it would provide support to Mr. Kurniawan's family.
While the protests, which have taken place throughout this week, address a wide range of issues, they particularly highlight discontent over a new monthly allowance for lawmakers set to receive a sum significantly higher than the local minimum wage.
