Riot police in Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, have fired tear gas and used a water cannon to disperse thousands of students protesting against lavish allowances given to members of parliament.
The clashes on Monday came after protesters, clad in dark clothing, threw rocks and set off fireworks at riot police, as they attempted to break into Indonesia’s parliament building.
At least one motorcycle was set ablaze by protesters, but officials did not provide details of damage, any casualties or arrests.
The protesters were outraged by recent reports that 580 members of the House of Representatives had been receiving a housing allowance of 50 million rupiah ($3,075) per month since September 2024.
They view the allowances as unjust due to the economic hardship faced by most citizens.
The h