Subheading: Citizens’ Fury Flares Into Flames :
Introduction :
On August 29, 2025, violent protests swept across Indonesia, ignited by outrage over police brutality and excessive government perks. In Makassar, South Sulawesi, the unrest reached a critical point when protesters set ablaze a regional parliament building—resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to five others.ReutersAP NewsAl Jazeera
Subheading: What Sparked the Blaze?
The protests originally flared in Jakarta, after a distressing video went viral showing a ride-hailing driver, Affan Kurniawan, fatally struck by a police armored vehicle during a demonstration.AP NewsThe Australian Public fury was further fueled by revelations that Indonesia’s 580 lawmakers receive a lavish housing allowance, nearly ten times the Jakarta minimum wage.AP News+1
In Makassar, demonstrators stormed the local parliament building and set it ablaze. Officials confirmed that two people died on the scene, while a third succumbed to injuries at hospital. All were reportedly trapped inside the burning building.Al JazeeraReutersThe Australian
Subheading: Human Toll and Official Response :
Authorities confirmed five additional people were injured, with several sustaining burns or broken bones after jumping from the building to escape the flames.Al JazeeraAP NewsReuters
President Prabowo Subianto, in office since October, made a public appearance at the victim’s family, promising a swift and transparent investigation.ReutersThe Australian Police have also detained seven officers in connection with Kurniawan’s death.The AustralianReuters Amid the turmoil, Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch condemned the excessive crackdown and called for accountability.AP NewsThe Washington Post
Subheading: Protests Expand Far Beyond Makassar :
The unrest isn’t confined to Makassar. Major cities like Bandung and Surabaya saw buildings torched and confrontations with police, including water cannon and tear gas retaliation.AP News+1The Washington Post Although some order restored in Jakarta, transit disruptions and public fear persist.ReutersAl Jazeera
Subheading: SEO Keywords and Takeaway :
SEO-friendly keywords: Indonesia protests 2025, Makassar parliament fire, Indonesian protest deaths, Prabowo investigation, ride-hailing driver killed.
Key takeaway: Indonesia is facing its most widespread unrest under President Prabowo, with protests tied to police brutality and inequality. The tragic loss of life in Makassar underscores the volatility of the situation and the urgent need for reform.
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