Indonesia to Cut Lawmaker Privileges Amid Deadly Protests

Indonesia to Cut Lawmaker Privileges Amid Deadly Protests
……………..

Indonesia’s political parties have agreed to roll back certain parliamentary benefits following nationwide protests that turned violent, Arab News reported. President Prabowo Subianto announced the decision on Sunday, saying lawmakers will revoke policies on pay and housing allowances and halt international work trips.

The protests, which began on Monday over what critics described as excessive benefits for parliamentarians, escalated into riots by Thursday after a motorcycle taxi driver was killed during a police crackdown. Clashes led to five deaths, and several homes and government buildings were vandalized or burned.

Speaking from the Presidential Palace alongside party leaders, Prabowo condemned the violence, calling some acts “terrorism” and “treason.” He instructed police and military forces to take firm action against looters and those damaging public and private property. The unrest marks the most significant challenge to Prabowo’s administration since he took office in October 2024, following a largely unopposed start to his presidency.