Deadly Protests Spread Across Indonesia, Eight Dead, Hundreds Injured

Indonesia is experiencing its most significant unrest in over two decades, sparked by public outrage over lavish benefits for lawmakers, including a housing allowance nearly ten times the minimum wage in Jakarta, amid rising economic inequality and austerity measures. Protests began in Jakarta and spread nationwide, involving thousands of demonstrators, including students and workers, who also oppose increased military influence in civilian affairs and growing economic hardship. Violence escalated following the death of a 21-year-old delivery driver struck by a police armored vehicle, leading to clashes, looting, and at least eight deaths, with hundreds injured and over 1,200 arrests reported. Despite government gestures such as pledging to revoke some parliamentary perks and a moratorium on overseas visits, many Indonesians feel these measures fail to address the deep-rooted economic grievances fueling the unrest. The protests have drawn international attention, including calls from the United Nations for restraint and investigations into alleged human rights abuses. President Prabowo Subianto faces mounting pressure as the crisis highlights widespread resentment against perceived corruption and inequality within Indonesia's political elite.