Story perspectives

Jakarta Protests Erupt After Police Death of Taxi Driver

8/29/2025

Summary

Story summary

Protests in Jakarta followed the death of 21-year-old motorcycle taxi driver Affan Kurniawan, run over by a police vehicle on August 28.
Public outrage over police brutality has sparked demands for reform, with student groups planning additional protests.
President Prabowo Subianto has ordered an investigation and expressed condolences; seven officers involved have been detained.
The incident has heightened frustrations regarding political privileges and rising living costs in Indonesia.

History

Historical Context

The 1998 Indonesian Reformation ended Suharto's authoritarian rule, initiating a transition to democracy. Despite progress, public distrust in the police remained high, with 40% of citizens expressing skepticism in 2020. The recent death of Affan Kurniawan has reignited demands for police reform, reflecting ongoing tensions between citizens and authorities and underscoring the need for systemic change in governance and public safety.

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Story summary

Protests in Jakarta followed the death of 21-year-old motorcycle taxi driver Affan Kurniawan, run over by a police vehicle on August 28.
Public outrage over police brutality has sparked demands for reform, with student groups planning additional protests.
President Prabowo Subianto has ordered an investigation and expressed condolences; seven officers involved have been detained.
The incident has heightened frustrations regarding political privileges and rising living costs in Indonesia.

1 / 2