Indonesia dismisses commander after death in protests

Indonesian authorities have dismissed a police commander over the death of a protester, amid a wave of protests that began in Jakarta 11 days ago, leaving at least 10 dead and 4,000 arrests.

The National Police Ethics Commission has ordered the dismissal of Kosmas Kaju Gae, commander of a mobile brigade, for “serious violation” of regulations in the incident that caused the death of Affan Kurniawan, a young driver for the GoJek platform — the local equivalent of Uber — on August 28.

According to local media, including the Jakarta Globe, six other officers are believed to be involved in the death, after the victim was allegedly run over by a police vehicle.

According to Amnesty International, Kurniawan was the first of at least ten people killed in the protests. The Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS) also reported the disappearance of 20 protesters.

Protests erupted after it was announced that the 580 members of the House of Representatives would receive up to $14,000 a month (around €12,000), following a budget increase.

Trade unions and student organizations have pointed out that most Indonesian workers earn less than 3% of this amount per month.

The death of the GoJek driver intensified the wave of protests and clashes in the streets, including acts of vandalism and police repression.

In the wake of the crisis, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced cuts to parliamentary privileges and ordered the military and police to take “firm action.”

On Tuesday, local media reported the discovery of 48 tear gas canisters near two university campuses.

The day before, the Indonesian Women's Alliance called for a vigil in front of parliament, and further demonstrations were planned for this Thursday.