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What caused the protests in Indonesia?
The protests in Indonesia initially started over economic issues like wages, taxes, and political allowances. The situation worsened after a police vehicle incident where a motorcycle taxi driver was killed during clashes near parliament. This tragic event fueled social media outrage and intensified the demonstrations across multiple cities.
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How did the police vehicle incident escalate protests?
The incident involved an armored police vehicle running into a motorcycle taxi driver, Affan Kurniawan, during clashes. The event was captured on social media, sparking widespread outrage and protests. The violence and the perceived excessive use of force by police led to increased unrest and social media calls for justice.
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What is President Prabowo doing about the unrest?
President Prabowo has called for calm and ordered an investigation into the police vehicle incident. The government is also deploying security forces to manage the protests and prevent further violence. Despite these efforts, tensions remain high as demonstrators demand accountability and broader economic reforms.
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Are protests spreading to other parts of Indonesia?
Yes, protests are not limited to Jakarta. Demonstrations have spread to several other cities across Indonesia, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with economic conditions and government responses. The unrest has also seen some clashes and fires, indicating the protests are becoming more intense.
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Is the government taking any steps to address the protesters' demands?
The government has acknowledged the unrest and is conducting investigations into the police incident. However, many protesters are calling for deeper reforms related to economic policies and police accountability. The situation remains fluid as authorities try to balance maintaining order with addressing public grievances.
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Will the protests lead to lasting change in Indonesia?
It’s uncertain if the protests will result in significant long-term change. Historically, protests can pressure governments to implement reforms, but they can also lead to increased repression. The current unrest highlights deep-seated economic and political issues that Indonesia may need to address to restore stability.