Widespread protests have broken out across Indonesia’s capital following the death of a motorcycle taxi driver struck by a police vehicle during demonstrations. The incident has triggered the most significant public challenge to President Prabowo Subianto’s administration since he took office nearly a year ago.
The fatal collision occurred Thursday near parliament buildings where security forces were attempting to disperse crowds protesting various government policies. The victim, identified as ride-hailing driver Affan Kurniawan, was killed when an armored police vehicle struck him during the unrest.
By Friday afternoon, hundreds of demonstrators had gathered outside key government buildings in Jakarta, with many chanting slogans and throwing projectiles at security barriers. The protests prompted early closures of schools and businesses throughout the city, while military units were deployed to several locations to reinforce police presence.
“I demand a transparent investigation into our colleague’s death,” said Pendi Nasir, a 43-year-old motorcycle driver among the protesters. “We cannot allow more victims to fall in these situations.”
The demonstrations spread beyond the capital, with drivers in their distinctive green jackets organizing protests in major cities including Surabaya, Bandung, and Gorontalo. Participants voiced frustration over various issues, from legislative privileges to education funding.
President Subianto addressed the situation in a video statement, expressing shock at the “excessive actions” of officers and promising a thorough investigation. “I have ordered complete transparency in this matter, and those responsible will be held accountable,” he stated.
The unrest had immediate economic consequences, with the Indonesian rupiah weakening significantly against the US dollar and stock markets experiencing sharp declines before partially recovering.
Jakarta’s police chief publicly apologized to Kurniawan’s family, acknowledging the vehicle involved belonged to security forces. Authorities later announced the detention of seven police officers from the vehicle for ethics violations, with questioning underway.
Hundreds of fellow drivers formed a motorcycle procession escorting Kurniawan’s body to his final resting place, while legal aid organizations called for the release of hundreds detained during the protests.
The incident has intensified calls for police reform and raised questions about the government’s approach to public demonstrations, presenting a critical test for the current administration’s handling of civil unrest.
