Story perspectives

Jakarta Protests Ignite Calls for Police Reform, Accountability

9/5/2025

Summary

Protests Demand Reform

Protests in Jakarta demand police reform and accountability for motorcycle driver Affan Kurniawan's death.
The unrest has resulted in over 10 fatalities and 1,000 injuries, leading to 3,000 detentions nationwide.
President Prabowo Subianto canceled lawmakers' perks, including a controversial housing allowance, due to public outrage.
One police officer was fired for Kurniawan's death; the status of six others is unclear.
The United Nations urges thorough investigations into human rights violations amid the protests.

Summary

Students Challenge Government

On September 4, 2025, Indonesian students protested outside the House of Representatives, seeking to revoke treason accusations against student movements.
The protests followed the death of Affan Kurniawan, a motorcycle taxi driver killed by police during prior demonstrations.
BEM SI demands include ratifying the Asset Confiscation Bill and ending taxation on the poor by September 5, 2025.
President Prabowo Subianto's strict enforcement against protesters has heightened tensions.
BEM SI's Central Coordinator, Muzammil Ihsan, condemned the government's lack of accountability for violence against protesters.

History

Historical Context

The 1998 Indonesian Reformation ended Suharto's 32-year authoritarian rule, ushering in a period of democratic reforms. This transition saw over 1,000 reported cases of police violence, highlighting ongoing governance issues. Recent protests in Jakarta, sparked by the death of Affan Kurniawan, reflect the enduring struggle for accountability and human rights in Indonesia, emphasizing the need for urgent reforms.

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Protests Demand Reform

Protests in Jakarta demand police reform and accountability for motorcycle driver Affan Kurniawan's death.
The unrest has resulted in over 10 fatalities and 1,000 injuries, leading to 3,000 detentions nationwide.
President Prabowo Subianto canceled lawmakers' perks, including a controversial housing allowance, due to public outrage.
One police officer was fired for Kurniawan's death; the status of six others is unclear.
The United Nations urges thorough investigations into human rights violations amid the protests.

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