At Least 3 Killed After Angry Mob Burns Indonesian Parliament Office

Indonesia is grappling with its most intense wave of protests in recent memory as demonstrations spread to multiple cities, culminating in deadly violence and widespread unrest. What began as peaceful marches against lawmakers' pay raises quickly spiraled into chaos, with regional government buildings torched and clashes between protestors and police escalating sharply.

Origins of the Protests: Anger Over Lawmakers' Salaries and Police Brutality

The initial spark came from anger over recent increases in parliament members’ allowances amid soaring inflation and perceived government mismanagement. Thousands of students, workers, and motorcycle taxi drivers took to the streets demanding economic justice and political accountability.

Tensions surged further after a viral video showed the death of a 21-year-old delivery driver, Affan Kurniawan, who was allegedly struck by an armored police vehicle during clashes with protestors in Jakarta. His death intensified public outrage, prompting calls for police reform and accountability.

Deadly Unrest in Makassar and Other Cities

The worst violence unfolded in Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi province. Protesters there blocked major roads with burning tires and set fire to the regional parliament building, forcing emergency evacuations including local government officials and the mayor. Tragically, at least three people died amid the chaos, including one civil servant who reportedly jumped from a building to escape the flames. Several others sustained injuries while escaping or during confrontations with authorities.

Similar violent scenes were reported in Bandung, Surabaya, Solo, Medan, Yogyakarta, and other cities, where demonstrators clashed with riot police using tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets. Protests also spread to smaller towns such as Gorontalo and Manado, reflecting nationwide discontent.

Government Response and Security Measures

President Prabowo Subianto condemned the violence and called for calm, urging dialogue to resolve grievances peacefully. However, security forces have maintained a heavy presence across the country, deploying special police units and military personnel to contain the unrest.

Local authorities have engaged with community leaders and student groups, attempting negotiations while preparing for further demonstrations. Police also warned against unlawful behavior, promising to take “decisive action” against any escalation threatening public safety.

Broader Social and Economic Context

These protests are occurring against a backdrop of continued economic hardship for many Indonesians. Rising prices, endemic unemployment, and frustrations over stagnant wages have fueled grievances. The parliament’s pay raise, viewed by many as excessive and unjustified, has become a flashpoint symbolizing wider dissatisfaction with political elites.

Social media has played a critical role in mobilizing demonstrators, as well as disseminating news and videos of clashes, helping sustain momentum and solidarity among diverse groups.

Path Forward: Calls for Reform and National Healing

Experts and civil society leaders acknowledge the urgency of addressing the root causes of unrest by reforming governance, strengthening social protections, and improving police accountability. The outcry following Affan Kurniawan’s death amplified demands for justice and systemic change.

As Indonesia navigates this turbulent moment, the government faces the twin challenges of restoring order without escalating tensions and responding sincerely to citizens’ aspirations for better governance and fairness.

In summary, the sweeping protests in Indonesia reflect widespread dissatisfaction that has erupted into violence and tragedy. The nation now stands at a crossroads, needing careful balancing between security, justice, and rebuilding public trust. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the country’s political and social trajectory.