A shadow has fallen over Jakarta, sparked by the tragic death of a young man who was simply trying to make a living. Affan Kurniawan, just 21, was a motorcycle taxi driver, known as an ojol, a common sight on the city’s bustling streets. His life ended abruptly when he was hit by a police armored vehicle during a chaotic protest in central Jakarta.
His mother, Erlana, a 41-year-old, carries a heavy heart. She wants justice for her son, demanding the harshest penalties for those responsible. Affan, she said, was the family’s rock, working tirelessly to save for a plot of land and build a new home in their village in Lampung province.
This tragic incident didn’t happen in a vacuum. It unfolded during the capital’s second major protest that week. People had gathered, their anger simmering, over what they saw as outrageous perks for lawmakers. On the evening of August 28, the streets of Pejompongan in central Jakarta turned into a scene of pandemonium. Affan found himself caught in the middle. Suddenly, a police armored vehicle, part of the Brimob special force unit, plowed through the crowd. It struck Affan, then sped away. Seven police officers are now being questioned about their role in the incident.
Indonesia’s top police chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, quickly stepped in. He met Affan’s grieving family at the hospital, offering his condolences and a public apology. He promised accountability from the police force. President Prabowo Subianto also shared his sorrow, speaking via video on August 29. He condemned the excessive force used and called for a thorough, open investigation, vowing severe punishment for any wrongdoing.
A disturbing video of the event quickly spread online. It showed the armored vehicle barreling into the mass of people. Protesters scattered in panic, but Affan couldn’t get clear. The vehicle hit him, knocking him down, then ran over his body before speeding off. Enraged onlookers chased after the vehicle, throwing things and screaming for justice.
This tragedy fanned the flames of a week-long public outcry. The main source of anger? Lawmakers enjoying lavish benefits. This includes a monthly housing allowance of 50 million rupiah and other perks. These benefits combined are about 14 times the minimum wage in Jakarta. Many citizens see these huge packages as a slap in the face. Life is getting tougher for ordinary people. They face rising costs, job losses, and higher property taxes. The gap between the political elite and everyday citizens seems to be growing wider.
For Jakarta’s motorcycle taxi drivers, Affan’s death turned their grief into a powerful call for action. Long lines of them rode their bikes through the streets at night. They chanted “Justice for Affan!” and “A life for a life!” Their message was clear.
Political experts warn that these protests could get much bigger if the government doesn’t connect with its people. Human rights groups have also spoken out against the police’s heavy-handed tactics. Usman Hamid, who leads Amnesty International Indonesia, explained it simply. He said officers sometimes need to use force in tough situations. But that force must be truly necessary, fair, and responsible. He pointed to things like tear gas, beatings, and arrests without good reason as examples of excessive force.
Another protest is planned for the afternoon of August 29 in Jakarta. The city holds its breath, waiting to see if justice will be served and if calm can return to its streets.
Source The Straits Times