Jakarta – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Sunday condemned nationwide protests citing economic issues and inequality, asserting that specific actions during these demonstrations could be classified as treason and terrorism, reports 24brussels.
Protests erupted across Indonesia’s major cities following the death of motorcycle taxi driver Affan Kurniawan, who was fatally struck by a police vehicle during a demonstration on Thursday against legislative financial benefits.
What damage and looting occurred during the violent demonstrations?
On Saturday, demonstrators set fires at regional parliament buildings in three provinces: West Nusa Tenggara, Pekalongan (Central Java), and Cirebon (West Java), according to local media reports.
In Cirebon, protesters looted equipment from a parliamentary office. In Pekalongan and West Nusa Tenggara, police deployed tear gas to disperse the crowds. Additionally, reports indicated that the home of Indonesia’s Minister of Finance was also looted.
How many casualties have occurred to this point?
The state news agency Antara reported three fatalities attributed to a fire intentionally set at a parliament building in Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi, on Friday. The victims were trapped inside the construction.
When did the protests begin, and what were the grievances?
Protests in Indonesia commenced on Monday, August 25, 2025, driven by public outrage over perceived excessive perks and housing allowances granted to lawmakers amid stagnant wages, rising unemployment, and inflation. Tensions escalated on Thursday when video footage showing a police armored truck fatally running over 21-year-old delivery driver Affan Kurniawan went viral.
The protests unfolded in Jakarta, where riot police clashed with student demonstrators, and it was alleged that Kurniawan was delivering food when the armored truck ran him over and fled the scene without assistance.
