Police Officer Demoted After Fatal Incident

In a shocking turn of events, Indonesian police officer Chief Brigadier Rohmat has been demoted for seven years following the tragic death of delivery rider Affan Kurniawan, who was killed by an armored vehicle during protests in Jakarta on August 28.

Breaking Down the Incident

Rohmat, found guilty of breaching police ethical standards, attended a hearing where he faced consequences but narrowly avoided dismissal. The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) reported that Rohmat acted under orders from his commander, Cosmas Kaju Gae, who was ousted just a day prior.

Commissioner Ida Oetari Poernamasasi pointed out that the armored vehicle had significant blind spots—one side mirror was broken, hampering Rohmat's visibility amid a chaotic protest scene.

Consequences and Wider Implications

The demotion aligns with Rohmat’s remaining service in the Indonesian National Police, as per Senior Commissioner Heri Setiawan’s statement. He called Rohmat's behavior "despicable" and indicated that other officers involved, five from the Mobile Brigade (Brimob), are also undergoing ethics trials.

Rising Fury Over Police Brutality

Affan Kurniawan, a mere 21 years old, was innocently making a delivery in Pejompongan when he was tragically run over. His death ignited widespread outrage, fueling protests against police brutality and growing dissatisfaction with the Indonesian Parliament.

Nationwide Protests Amplify Demand for Change

These protests, rooted in opposition to proposed increases in allowances for Members of Parliament, have already resulted in ten fatalities, including another delivery rider in Makassar, according to the National Commission on Human Rights. In response to the public outcry, Parliament has canceled a staggering 50 million rupiah (approx. $3,075) monthly housing allowance, deemed excessively lavish amidst the economic struggles faced by everyday Indonesians.

Calls for Reforms and Accountability

In light of the growing discontent, Parliament has also scrapped plans to increase salaries for members and banned non-essential overseas trips. Student groups, social media influencers, and activists are mobilizing to ensure that their demands for transparency in the budget and the release of detained protesters are heard loud and clear.

With the rising tide of protests, the Indonesian populace stands united for justice and systemic change, demanding that their voices be acknowledged in the face of adversity.