Demonstrators ignite Indonesian parliament structures

Unrest and Protests Sweep Across Indonesia

Indonesia has been grappling with a wave of protests and violent incidents over the past few days, with demonstrations erupting in several cities across the country.

The unrest began earlier this week in Jakarta, the capital, where protests were held over lawmakers' pay. The protests escalated on Friday following the death of a ride-hailing motorbike driver after a police vehicle hit him. This tragic incident sparked further anger and led to the escalation of protests.

In Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi province, three people died and at least five were injured when demonstrators set fire to the parliamentary building on Friday evening. Local media reported one further death from the parliamentary building fire, though this could not be independently confirmed. Protesters also set parliament buildings on fire in West Nusa Tenggara, Pekalongan city in Central Java, and Cirebon city in West Java.

Reuters could not confirm the media reports about the incidents, and authorities were not immediately available for comment. However, National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo ordered authorities to take firm action against protesters who violate laws.

The president, Prabowo Subianto, faces a major test due to the continuing demonstrations. In response, he canceled a planned visit to China to focus on calming the situation.

Elsewhere in the country, protests were reported on the holiday island of Bali at the police headquarters, with police reportedly using tear gas against demonstrators. Services of Jakarta-owned Transjakarta bus were disrupted, and local media reported looting of parliament's office equipment in Cirebon.

The disaster management agency reported that two people were injured after jumping out of the burning parliamentary building in Makassar.

President Subianto's administration has been under pressure over luxury allowances for legislators, which have been a contentious issue in the country. The president has promised to address the concerns and reform the system.

The protests and violence have caused disruptions to daily life in several cities, with Jakarta's mass rapid transit not stopping at one station near Friday's protest site on Saturday. The situation remains fluid, and authorities are working to restore order and peace in the affected areas.