On Sunday, President Prabowo Subianto announced that Indonesian political parties have agreed to eliminate certain benefits and privileges for parliamentarians, a significant response to anti-government demonstrations that resulted in five fatalities.
The protests began on Monday, driven by complaints about parliamentarians’ high salaries and housing benefits. Tensions escalated into riots on Thursday after a motorcycle rideshare driver was killed during police actions at a protest. Several political party members’ homes and state properties were vandalized or set on fire.
During a news conference at the Presidential Palace, Prabowo, alongside political party leaders, stated that he directed the military and police to take decisive measures against rioters and looters, labeling some activities as “terrorism” and “treason”.
“Parliament leaders have expressed their intention to retract several policies, including reducing parliamentary allowances and halting overseas work trips,” Prabowo explained.
He further asserted, “I have instructed the police and military to act firmly against the destruction of public property, home invasions, and disruptions to economic centers, in accordance with the law.”
These protests are the most significant challenge Prabowo’s administration has faced since its inception nearly a year ago, having encountered minimal political resistance since taking office last October.
