Indonesia Regional Budget Cuts Spur Tax Hikes, Public Protests

Thousands of Indonesians have protested against President Prabowo Subianto's proposal to cut regional funding by 25%, a measure intended to re-centralize government finances and support national programs like free school lunches. Local leaders warn that these cuts, which would result in the smallest regional budgets in a decade, will force local governments to increase taxes, fueling public anger and unrest. Protests have escalated in regions such as Central Java and Sulawesi, where local tax hikes have already reached 250% and 65%, respectively, prompting confrontations with police. Critics argue that Prabowo's spending priorities threaten democracy by reducing regional autonomy and disproportionately burdening local communities. The government maintains that the programs funded by the cuts will promote long-term economic growth and prosperity. Local officials are seeking urgent dialogue with President Prabowo to address the impacts of the budget plan and quell rising public ire.