President Prabowo Agrees to Independent Investigation into August Unrest as Death Toll, Allegations Rise

Jakarta, September 12, 2025: President Prabowo Subianto has formally approved the establishment of an independent investigation committee to examine the riots that shook various regions of Indonesia in late August, after an escalation of protests into violence, destruction, arrests, and deaths. The decision comes in response to demands from civil society, interfaith groups, and grieving families seeking transparency and accountability.

Background: Protests escalate into Riots

The unrest began with peaceful demonstrations by students, workers, and activists, triggered by widespread public anger over what were perceived as excessive allowances and privileges for parliamentarians, economic hardship, and frustrations over inflation and cost of living. Among the flashpoints was the death of delivery driver Affan Kurniawan, who was allegedly run over by a police vehicle on August 28. His death intensified public outrage and mobilised further protests. Over several days, protests in Jakarta and beyond saw acts of arson, looting, and clashes with security forces. Authorities responded with mass arrests and deployment of police and military. The total death toll from the unrest is reported to be at least 10.

What the Investigation Will Cover

The proposed independent commission, as described by Lukman Hakim Saifuddin representing the National Conscience Movement (Gerakan Nasional Berperikemanusiaan, or GNB), will be tasked with uncovering “root causes” of the unrest. Key areas of its mandate include distinguishing between legitimate peaceful demonstrations and violent or criminal acts, clarifying governmental and security forces’ roles, determining responsibility for deaths and property damage, and reviewing treatment of detainees. Saifuddin emphasized that commission members must be professionals, independent, and free from vested interests, and should have strong authority to carry out their mandate effectively.

Government Response & Promises

Prabowo’s acknowledgment of the need for an independent probe follows meetings with religious leaders, civil society representatives, and interfaith figures at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, among them former religious affairs minister Lukman Hakim Saifuddin, Muslim scholar Quraish Shihab, Jakarta Archbishop Ignatius Suharyo, Buddhist monk Pannyavaro Mahathera, Jesuit priest Franz Magnis-Suseno, and the former First Lady Sinta Nuriyah Wahid. He has also signaled willingness to entertain reforms, especially in policing and oversight, acknowledging that freedom of expression is a constitutional right. The mechanism and legal structure of the commission are still under formulation.

Challenges and Civil Society Demands

• Independence and Credibility: Civil society groups insist that the commission be truly independent—without influence from the police, military, or political actors. Any appearance of bias could undermine public trust.
• Scope and Mandate: The commission will need to investigate not only deaths and property damage, but also arrests, injuries, economic loss, possible excesses by security forces, and whether any criminal legal frameworks (e.g., use of force, detention) were violated.
• Timeliness and Transparency: Public calls include releasing detained protesters, sharing findings, and ensuring follow-through of recommendations. Time is of essence to heal social trust.

Implications for Democracy and Rule of Law

Prabowo’s concession reflects mounting pressure from citizens and civil society and may mark a turning point in how public demonstrations and state response are handled. The move can help restore confidence in democratic institutions, especially if investigations are thorough and justice is delivered. Conversely, failure to deliver may exacerbate social divides, fuel further protests, and worsen perceptions of governmental overreach. Human rights groups are watching closely.

Next Steps

The Presidential Palace is expected to soon announce the structure, membership, legal basis, and terms of reference of the commission. Parallel reforms in policing and public accountability are also expected to be proposed. Civil society has called for inclusive membership, including victims, independent legal experts, human rights organisations, media, and interfaith leaders. Whether these demands are met will shape both national and international perceptions of Indonesia’s commitment to civil liberties and human rights.