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Hüseyin Dogru@hussedogru_ · Mar 25, 2025

Why are protests erupting in Indonesia right now? 🧵

6 tweets1 min read♥ 143Koriginal

Summary

Indonesia is experiencing widespread protests after parliament passed a law allowing active-duty military officers to occupy civilian positions in 14 state institutions, a move critics compare to the authoritarian Suharto era under new President Prabowo. Police have responded to demonstrations with tear gas, water cannons, and violence, hospitalizing dozens of protesters.

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  1. #1

    Why are protests erupting in Indonesia right now? 🧵

  2. #2

    Indonesia’s parliament has passed a controversial law expanding the military’s role in government. The new legislation, discussed behind closed doors, allows active-duty officers to occupy civilian posts in 14 state institutions, including the Supreme Court and the Attorney General’s Office.

  3. #3

    President Prabowo, a former special forces commander under Suharto’s dictatorship, approved the law—drawing comparisons to the military control of that era.

  4. #4

    Demonstrations have broken out in multiple cities. Students, activists, and concerned citizens have taken to the streets.

  5. #5

    Police have responded with tear gas, water cannons, and batons. Dozens have been hospitalized.

  6. #6

    In Surabaya, Molotovs were thrown during confrontations with riot squads. Protesters say the violence reflects growing frustration with escalating repression.