Indonesia Protests: President Vows to End Lawmaker Perks After Deadly Clashes

Indonesia President Revokes Lawmaker Perks Amidst Deadly Protests Over Housing Allowances

Jakarta,Indonesia – In a dramatic response to widespread‍ public outrage and escalating protests that ​resulted in six deaths,Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto announced Sunday the revocation of controversial perks and privileges⁢ afforded⁢ to lawmakers. The ‍most⁢ critically important concession⁣ is the immediate suspension of a widely criticized $3,000 (50 million rupiah) monthly housing allowance ​granted to all 580 members of parliament.

This decisive action follows days of nationwide demonstrations sparked by the revelation of the​ allowance – nearly ten times the Jakarta minimum wage – at a‍ time when manny Indonesians are struggling with rising ⁤living costs, ‍taxation burdens, and unemployment. ⁤The move signals a rare willingness to yield to public pressure in the ​world’s third-largest democracy.

“By Monday,lawmakers will see certain allowances scrapped‌ and overseas work trips suspended ‌under a new moratorium,” President Subianto stated during a televised press conference alongside leaders from eight Indonesian political parties.⁣ this unified front underscores the ⁢gravity of the ‍situation and the government’s commitment to addressing public⁤ concerns.

From Outrage to Action: A Timeline of‍ Events

The protests ‍initially erupted in Jakarta on Monday, fueled by​ reports detailing ‍the substantial housing benefit introduced last year. What began as demonstrations of discontent quickly escalated following the tragic death of 21-year-old ride-hailing driver‍ Affan Kurniawan on Thursday.

Disturbing video footage circulating on ‍social media appeared ⁣to ⁤show Kurniawan being struck and run over by⁢ an armored police vehicle during a rally. The incident ⁣ignited a national outcry, intensifying calls for accountability and further fueling ⁢the protests. President Subianto has confirmed that seven police officers are currently under examination in connection with Kurniawan’s death.

The unrest later spread to other ​cities, including ​Yogyakarta, where a 21-year-old university student died during clashes with riot police on Friday,‌ bringing the total⁤ death toll to six.

Government Response and Calls for Calm

Facing mounting​ pressure,President subianto took swift action,summoning prominent figures ⁢including 16 religious leaders and eight political leaders – notably former President Megawati Sukarnopurti,chairwoman of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle – for emergency consultations. He also canceled a planned high-profile trip to China to personally address the crisis.

While reaffirming the government’s commitment‍ to upholding constitutional rights to‌ freedom of expression, President Subianto cautioned ⁢against the escalation ⁤of protests into‌ violence ‌and anarchy. He warned that​ destructive acts targeting public facilities, endangering lives, or attacking ​private and public institutions would not be tolerated, and could potentially be classified as treason or terrorism.

“I sincerely ask all‍ citizens to trust the government ‌and ‌remain calm,” Subianto urged,emphasizing his administration’s dedication to serving the interests of ⁣the Indonesian⁣ people and the nation. He called for peaceful and ⁣constructive dialog, assuring citizens that⁤ their voices would be heard.

Looking Ahead: Restoring ‍Trust and Stability

The revocation of lawmaker perks represents a significant step towards addressing public grievances. though, the long-term impact will depend on the government’s ability to restore trust and address the underlying economic concerns that fueled the protests.

Experts suggest that further measures to ⁣improve clarity⁢ in government spending, address income inequality, and create economic opportunities will be crucial in preventing future unrest. The investigation into Affan Kurniawan’s death and the⁤ accountability of the officers involved will also be paramount in ⁣demonstrating a commitment to justice⁤ and upholding‌ the rule of law.The situation remains fluid, ‌and continued ​monitoring of public ⁣sentiment and proactive engagement with⁢ citizens will be essential for maintaining stability and fostering a more‍ inclusive and equitable Indonesia.