Jakarta Protesters Demand Action
Anti-corruption anger spilt onto the streets of Jakarta on Thursday, as hundreds of Indonesians marched on parliament demanding lawmakers finally pass a long-delayed law to seize assets linked to alleged corruption and impose the death penalty on those convicted of graft.
Footage shows protesters marching towards Parliament carrying Indonesian flags and banners demanding lawmakers ‘pass the asset confiscation bill’ and ‘fight injustice’.
The crowd also gathered at the gates, burning banners and placards, throwing stones and climbing the gates before police with riot shields moved in and the crowd began to disperse.
Lawmakers Promise Bill Deadline
According to reports, Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad met AMPB representatives and signed a commitment to complete the Asset Forfeiture Bill by December 15, with parliamentary leaders also reportedly agreeing to resign as lawmakers if the deadline is missed.
The protest follows years of delays to Indonesia’s Asset Forfeiture Bill, first submitted to Parliament in May 2023 but left unpassed when the lawmakers’ term ended in 2024.
The legislation has since returned to the agenda, with supporters arguing it would strengthen authorities’ ability to seize assets linked to corruption and other serious crimes.
Anti-Corruption Campaign Grows
Indonesia’s government says existing anti-corruption and criminal laws already allow for the death penalty in certain circumstances, although any sentence would ultimately be decided by the courts.
AMPB’s campaign began in Pati, Central Java, where mass protests erupted in 2025 over plans to raise land and building taxes by up to 250 per cent.
The movement initially demanded the removal of Regent Sudewo, who was later arrested in a separate corruption case, before growing into a broader campaign against corruption and illicit wealth.
Article by Viory
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