Indonesia’s leader pledges response to violent protests

(MENAFN) Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto pledged Monday that he will “not retreat even a step” following violent demonstrations that have left at least four people dead, according to reports.

Visiting victims at a hospital in East Jakarta, Prabowo distinguished between “rioters, not protesters,” accusing the groups responsible of trying to destabilize the nation. Since the unrest began, 43 people have received medical attention, with 16 released and 17 still hospitalized, including 14 police officers and three civilians. One civilian woman suffered a broken thigh when rioters seized her motorcycle while she was on her way to the market.

“Their intention is not to voice aspirations. Their intention is to cause chaos, disrupt people’s lives and sabotage national development efforts aimed at ending poverty,” the president said.

Prabowo instructed National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo to grant extraordinary promotions to officers injured in the clashes, many of whom endured severe wounds such as skull fractures, amputations, and crushed organs.

He also condemned the vandalism of Jakarta’s parliament building, calling it an attack on democracy. “The parliament building represents national sovereignty. Burning it shows the intent was not to protest, but to create unrest,” he said. “By God, I will not retreat even a step. I believe the people are with me.”

In response to the turmoil, Prabowo announced Sunday that political parties agreed to cut several benefits and privileges for lawmakers, including reduced allowances and a halt on overseas working visits.

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