Unrest Escalates as Lawmaker Ahmad Sahroni’s Home Looted by Protesters
Jakarta, August 31, 2025 — The wave of mass demonstrations sweeping across Indonesia has entered a more alarming phase. Following violent clashes that claimed the life of a ride-hailing driver earlier this week, protesters have now turned their anger toward lawmakers. On Saturday night, the residence of Ahmad Sahroni, a prominent member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), was looted by a furious crowd.
The incident stemmed from widespread outrage over recent salary and allowance increases for DPR members, which many see as out of touch with the economic struggles of ordinary Indonesians. Public anger has been further fueled by what many describe as the heavy-handed approach of security forces in dispersing demonstrations, leading to civilian casualties.
Protest Turns to Looting
Witnesses reported that a group of protesters, initially part of larger rallies in downtown Jakarta, moved toward Sahroni’s residence. The angry crowd damaged the property’s gates, pelted the house with stones, and eventually forced their way inside.
Several valuables were reported missing, while vehicles parked on the premises were vandalized. Police have since cordoned off the area and deployed additional security to prevent further escalation.
“It was terrifying. The crowd was huge, and no one could stop them,” said a local resident who declined to be named.
A Symbol of Public Frustration
Political analysts argue that the attack on Sahroni’s home is more than an act of vandalism—it represents a symbol of public frustration boiling over. “Sahroni’s residence became a target because he embodies the DPR, which is under heavy criticism. It reflects the people’s resentment toward a parliament they feel is disconnected from their reality,” said a political observer from the University of Indonesia.
The outrage is driven by what many see as a stark irony: lawmakers receiving significant salary and allowance increases while the public grapples with rising food prices, joblessness, and economic stagnation.
Sahroni and Parliament Respond
In a brief statement, Ahmad Sahroni expressed his dismay over the incident. “I understand the public’s frustration, but violence and looting cannot be justified. This is no longer about aspirations—it is a criminal act,” he said.
Meanwhile, DPR leaders announced they would hold an emergency meeting to address the protests and their growing impact on parliament’s image. Still, critics argue that the legislature has failed to read the economic and social mood of the people.
Security Forces Under Fire
The looting has intensified criticism of security forces, who were already under scrutiny for their repressive tactics during earlier demonstrations. Civil society organizations have called on authorities to abandon violent crackdowns in favor of dialogue and de-escalation.
“Excessive force only widens the gap between the state and its citizens,” one human rights group said in a statement.
Nationwide Tensions Continue
As of Sunday, the situation remains tense across multiple cities, with further demonstrations expected in the coming days. Protesters’ key demands include revoking the DPR salary and allowance increases and greater government accountability in handling public dissent.
The series of tragedies accompanying these demonstrations highlights just how critical public discontent has become. Observers warn that unless the government and parliament engage in honest, transparent dialogue with the people, unrest could spiral even further out of control. ( Yusuf )