Jakarta students protest policies in mass rally
Thousands of students gathered in Jakarta, Indonesia, as part of the "Dark Indonesia" movement, expressing their dissatisfaction with the current administration's policies. The protests, which began at Patung Kuda in Central Jakarta, expanded to areas including South and West Medan Merdeka Roads, leading to significant traffic disruptions around Bundaran HI. Demonstrators chanted "long live students" and displayed banners with messages such as "a climate crisis is a democratic crisis" and "not yet full, stupid yes".
The protesters voiced concerns over various issues, notably the nation's economic challenges attributed to rising state debt under President Joko Widodo's administration. They also criticized government programs like "Free Nutritious Meals" and the perceived expansion of the cabinet.
Security measures were heightened, with 1,623 personnel deployed to manage the crowd. Authorities closed traffic on West Medan Merdeka Road leading to the Presidential Palace, affecting public transportation routes.
As the evening progressed, tensions escalated. Protesters burned tires and posters, and some removed their university jackets as a form of dissent. Despite police requests to disperse, many remained, leading to clashes where objects like water bottles and wooden slats were thrown at law enforcement. The demonstration concluded around 8 pm, after which cleanup crews addressed the aftermath.
The "Dark Indonesia" movement has gained momentum nationwide, with similar protests occurring in cities like Bandung and Surabaya. In Bandung, students rallied outside the West Java Regional House of Representatives, highlighting issues such as reduced educational scholarships and the protection of Indonesian migrant workers. In Surabaya, demonstrations turned confrontational, resulting in the use of water cannons by police and reports of student injuries and arrests.
These events underscore a growing wave of student activism in Indonesia, reflecting widespread concerns over economic policies, governance, and the overall direction of the nation's leadership.
