Thousands of students marched toward Indonesia’s Parliament on Monday to protest lawmakers’ lavish benefits.
Riot police fired tear gas to disperse protesters trying to reach the Parliament compound.
Demonstrators criticized 580 House members for receiving 50 million rupiah (€2,637) monthly housing allowances since September 2024.
Protesters argued the benefits are unfair amid widespread economic hardship affecting most citizens.
Clashes and Roadblocks Disrupt City
Protesters threw rocks, bottles, and set fires under a flyover near Parliament’s heavily guarded entrance.
Authorities blocked streets and toll roads, causing severe traffic congestion across Jakarta.
Police deployed over 1,200 personnel to secure the Parliament building.
Officials reported no immediate injuries from Monday’s clashes.
Calls for Reform and Anti-Corruption Concerns
Students demanded the abolition of housing allowances that supplement lawmakers’ salaries.
The allowance equals roughly 20 times the monthly minimum wage in poor regions.
House Speaker Puan Maharani defended the payment, saying authorities adjusted it according to Jakarta prices.
Activists claim corruption pervades Indonesian institutions, noting police and lawmakers face widespread public distrust.
Public frustration continues in a country of over 280 million people demanding accountability from elected officials.
