Theressia Sunday Silalahi, Jakarta – House of Representatives (DPR) Speaker Puan Maharani issued a rare public apology on Friday, acknowledging that lawmakers have fallen short in serving the public, as protests against parliamentary perks and the death of a motorcycle taxi driver spread across the country.
"On behalf of all members and leaders of the House of Representatives, we apologize if we have not fully carried out our duties as representatives of the people," Puan said in a video message shared with reporters. She pledged that the House would improve its responsiveness to public concerns.
"The DPR will continue to reform itself in listening to the aspirations of the people. It is our commitment to keep communication open in building the nation together," she added.
Her apology came as demonstrations escalated in Jakarta and several other cities following the death of 21-year-old ride-hailing driver Affan Kurniawan, who was fatally struck by a police armored vehicle during a protest on Thursday.
What began as anger over lavish salaries and allowances for lawmakers has now merged with outrage over Affan's death, fueling broader unrest. On Friday, crowds swelled after Friday prayers, with protesters targeting the Mobile Brigade (Brimob) headquarters in central Jakarta.
Witnesses reported demonstrators hurling stones and other objects at the police compound in Kwitang, forcing officers to fire tear gas around 2:50 p.m. local time to disperse the crowds.
The clashes marked a sharp escalation after days of protests outside parliament and police headquarters. Police had earlier urged demonstrators to remain peaceful, while President Prabowo Subianto called for calm and warned against groups exploiting the unrest.
Despite government assurances of accountability, protests have widened across several regions, raising concerns about public trust in institutions. The unrest underscores deepening frustration over inequality and the perception of impunity among state officials.