Prabowo: Parliament to revoke policies on lawmaker allowances

Prabowo: Parliament to revoke policies on lawmaker allowances

Jakarta, Indonesia — In response to widespread public outrage and violent protests, Indonesia's major political parties have announced their intention to revoke controversial parliamentary perks, including a Rp 50 million ($3,000) monthly housing allowance. This move comes after days of escalating unrest over lawmakers' privileges, which many Indonesians see as out of touch with the country's economic realities.

The Gerindra Party, led by parliamentary leader Budisatrio Djiwandono, has been at the forefront of this initiative. Djiwandono stated that the party is ready to review and stop benefits deemed unfair to citizens. He ordered all party lawmakers to remain in the country to engage directly with constituents, following instructions from party chief Prabowo Subianto. Subianto also offered condolences to families of victims killed or injured during recent protests in Jakarta, Makassar, and other cities.

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), the largest bloc in parliament, echoed Gerindra's stance. Senior lawmaker Said Abdullah emphasized the need to suspend the housing allowance and other excessive benefits to preserve public trust. He noted that lawmakers must have empathy and remember that parliament is the people's showcase.

The National Mandate Party (PAN) also issued internal directives after criticism of its members, including television celebrities-turned-legislators Uya Kuya and Eko Patrio, whose homes were targeted by angry mobs over the weekend. Party chairman Zulkifli Hasan instructed PAN lawmakers to act with humility, avoid arrogance, and be ready to have their positions and perks reviewed.

These concessions follow days of escalating protests sparked by anger over lawmakers’ allowances. The unrest has led to the ransacking of several lawmakers' homes and the suspension of the Indonesian Finance Minister's housing allowance. Foreign embassies have also urged caution as protests spread across Indonesia, with new travel rules and safety risks emerging.

The move to revoke parliamentary perks is a significant shift in Indonesia's political landscape and reflects a growing public demand for transparency and accountability in governance. As lawmakers face increasing scrutiny, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the political and economic stability of the country.

References:
[1] https://jakartaglobe.id/news/nationwide-protests-push-parties-to-slash-lawmakers-perks-end-flex-culture
[2] https://jakartaglobe.id/news/lawmaker-nafa-urbach-pledges-to-donate-salary-following-housing-allowance-backlash