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Nationwide Protests Erupt After Gojek Rider's Death

8/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Protests in Indonesia erupted after a Gojek rider's death, resulting in a fire at the Makassar City Council that killed three.
Demonstrators accused police of excessive force, leading to nationwide unrest.
President Prabowo Subianto ordered an investigation and visited the victim's family; seven officers were detained.
These protests are the largest and most violent of Prabowo's presidency, challenging his leadership early in his term.

History

Historical Context

The 1998 Indonesian Reformation began with President Suharto's resignation on May 21, following mass protests against his authoritarian rule, which included police violence resulting in over 1,000 deaths. This historical unrest resonates today as protests erupt over police brutality after a Gojek rider's death, potentially influencing President Prabowo Subianto's leadership and civil rights in Indonesia.

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Story summary

Protests in Indonesia erupted after a Gojek rider's death, resulting in a fire at the Makassar City Council that killed three.
Demonstrators accused police of excessive force, leading to nationwide unrest.
President Prabowo Subianto ordered an investigation and visited the victim's family; seven officers were detained.
These protests are the largest and most violent of Prabowo's presidency, challenging his leadership early in his term.

1 / 2