Indonesia Unrest: A Delivery Driver's Death Sparks National Protests

Sat Sep 13 2025 14:31:37 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The tragic death of a rideshare driver has catalyzed widespread protests across Indonesia, fueled by public outrage over economic disparities and political corruption. As protests escalate, President Prabowo Subianto faces a growing challenge to his leadership.

Protests in Indonesia have erupted following the death of 21-year-old Affan Kurniawan, a motorcycle rideshare driver killed during clashes with police. Triggered by rising costs of living and perceived government unfairness, these demonstrations have resulted in violence, looting, and calls for accountability among the political elite. President Prabowo has promised reforms while the unrest continues to spread.

Indonesia Unrest: A Delivery Driver's Death Sparks National Protests

The Triggers Behind the Unrest

Protests have erupted across Indonesia following the tragic incident involving 21-year-old Affan Kurniawan, a motorcycle rideshare driver who was killed by police during escalating clashes. Demonstrators are expressing outrage over high living costs and excessive allowances afforded to parliamentarians, alongside long-standing issues of political corruption and social inequality.

Widespread Discontent

The protests began on August 25, 2025, in Jakarta and quickly spread nationwide, fueled by public anger at the government's recent decision to increase allowances for parliament members. Reports indicated that these officials earn significantly more than the average citizen, exacerbating feelings of inequality.

A Deadly Incident

Kurniawan's death at the hands of the police ignited further anger, leading to more protests and unrest across provinces such as West Java and Bali. By the end of the first week of protests, at least seven people had lost their lives amidst the demonstrations.

Government Response

In response to the unrest, President Prabowo Subianto announced plans to cut several state-funded perks for politicians. However, many citizens believe that the reforms do not address the root causes of the rising discontent. Protesters are demanding systemic changes that ensure accountability and transparency within the government.

Escalating Violence

The unrest has seen various instances of violence, including arson and looting, with local parliament buildings being set ablaze. Amid rising tensions, TikTok has suspended live streaming in Indonesia to prevent the spread of potentially inflammatory content.

The Way Forward

As President Prabowo deals with this unprecedented challenge to his leadership, the future remains uncertain. The question is whether he can placate the protestors and implement genuine reforms without resorting to excessive force, which has historically heightened risks for human rights violations.

The ongoing demonstrations represent not just a reaction to a single incident but a culmination of growing frustrations among Indonesians, raising the stakes not just for Prabowo's presidency but for the future of governance in Indonesia.