Mass protests in reignited on Friday following the death of a 21-year-old motorcycle taxi driver who was run over and killed by an armored police vehicle as security authorities tried to contain student protests.
Affan Kurniawan, the driver, died on Thursday evening near the parliament in Jakarta during violent clashes as police tried to disperse demonstrators protesting a number of issues, including lawmakers’ pay and education funding.
The incident sparked nationwide outrage. After news of the driver’s death spread, fellow riders gathered outside the headquarters of the Mobile Brigade anti-riot police in central Jakarta and threw stones at security personnel.
What did the police say?
Indonesia’s national police chief, Listyo Sigit Prabowo, offered a public apology and promised that the police would investigate.
“I deeply regret the incident and extend my sincerest condolences to the victim, his family and the entire ride-hailing community,” he said.
In a specially recorded video message, Indonesian President called for calm and expressed his condolences for the death of Kurniawan.
“I am shocked and disappointed by the excessive actions of the officers,” Prabowo said, adding that he has ordered “a thorough and transparent investigation, and stressing that “officers involved must be held accountable.”
What sparked the protests?
In recent days, tens of thousands of people have been demonstrating in Jakarta and other Indonesian cities against a new monthly housing allowance of 50 million rupiah (€2,600 or $3,000) for parliamentarians.
This announcement came at a time when many people in the are struggling with rising living costs and mass layoffs. Critics say this amount is nearly ten times higher than the minimum wage in many regions.
Public frustration has been fueled further by social media videos showing politicians flaunting their lavish lifestyles.
Police have used tear gas and water cannons against the crowds, arresting hundreds.
Edited by: Rana Taha
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