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 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 who expressed hope that the case would be thoroughly investigated while calling on delivery riders to cease protests for stability.
The police chief reiterated an apology, which was also extended by President Subianto, who expressed shock at the incident and disappointment with police action.
Police confirmed that investigations revealed several officers had violated professional codes, intensifying the protests as demonstrators attempted to block police convoys and confront law enforcement with stones.
As protests spread beyond Jakarta to other cities like Surabaya and Medan, they’ve focused on a range of grievances including new financial benefits for lawmakers set to receive allowances far exceeding the minimum wage.
Gojek, Kurniawan's employer, voiced its condolences and pledged support for his family, acknowledging the loss felt by the community. The situation continues to evolve, setting a critical stage for Indonesia’s political landscape.
