Indonesia Protests Over Police Killing Turn Deadly
Protests in Indonesia Escalate After Deadly Police Incident
Jakarta – Widespread protests led by students, workers, and rights groups have erupted across Indonesia, the world’s third-largest democracy, following the death of a motorcycle taxi driver struck by a police vehicle last week.
At least ten people have been killed during the unrest, which has included sporadic looting and rioting. Security forces have responded with tear gas and rubber bullets.
National police spokesperson Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko confirmed that officer Cosmas Kaju Gae, one of seven detained over the fatal incident, has been dishonorably discharged after an ethics hearing found him guilty of “unprofessionalism.”
A video from the hearing showed Cosmas in tears, saying he never intended to kill anyone and was only carrying out his duty. He said he may appeal the decision. The remaining six officers are still under review.
Amid mounting pressure for accountability, President Prabowo Subianto announced cuts to lawmakers’ perks, including housing and travel allowances.
‘Pink Protest’ in Jakarta
On Wednesday, hundreds of women dressed in pink gathered in central Jakarta, carrying brooms as a symbol of “sweeping away state corruption and repression,” according to organizers from the Alliance of Indonesian Women.
President Prabowo, meanwhile, has vowed that security forces will not tolerate violent mobs, saying some acts of unrest bore “signs of terrorism and treason.” Despite initially canceling, he later attended a military parade in China, with his office citing signs of stability returning at home.
Students Demand Reform
Parliamentary leaders held talks with at least ten student unions, who are demanding the release of detained demonstrators and an independent inquiry into allegations of treason.
The student body of the University of Indonesia urged an impartial investigation into police violence and criticized the disparity between lawmakers’ benefits and citizens’ economic struggles.
“It feels like we are only remembered during elections. Once they win, we’re forgotten,” said student leader Agus Setiawan.
Deputy parliament speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, a senior figure in Prabowo’s party, said students would have an opportunity to present their demands directly to the government on Thursday.
Economic Concerns
Fitch Ratings has warned that prolonged unrest could weaken Indonesia’s credit profile if it undermines growth or strains public finances.
“There is a risk that social tensions could linger as deeper issues remain unresolved, posing political challenges for the president and his coalition, despite their strong majority in parliament,” the agency said.
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