Kathmandu— Thousands of Indonesians protested outside the parliament building in Jakarta on Thursday, demanding stricter measures against corrupt officials and reforms to address systemic issues. The demonstration coincided with the one-year anniversary of antigovernment rallies that escalated into riots resulting in fatalities and mass arrests. Protesters called for the passage of a long-delayed bill allowing the state to seize assets linked to corruption, while also raising concerns about food security and alleged militarization.

Protest Escalates Amid Police Response

Riot police maintained a perimeter around the legislature throughout much of the day, preventing protesters from entering. As night fell, tensions escalated when some demonstrators began throwing objects at officers, who responded with tear gas and water cannons according to reports from the AFP news agency. A police post and motorcycle were reportedly set ablaze, and several individuals required medical attention and were carried away on stretchers. Similar demonstrations took place in Yogyakarta and Makassar.

Key Demands Focus on Asset Seizure

A central demand of the protesters is the passage of a bill first proposed in 2008 that would grant the state the authority to seize assets connected to corruption cases. Some participants at the rally also called for the implementation of the death penalty for corrupt officials. Sopriyano, leader of the United Pati Community Alliance, stated that several lawmakers agreed to resign if the bill is not passed by December 15th after meeting with representatives from the protest group.

Broader Concerns Raised Over Social Programs and Security

In addition to anti-corruption measures, approximately 200 students from various universities joined the demonstration to voice concerns about a free school meal program plagued by allegations of corruption and instances of food poisoning. They also called for an end to what they described as the “militarisation” of Indonesian society and demanded lower food prices. A student representative explained that the date, August 27th, was intentionally chosen to commemorate last year’s riots while emphasizing their commitment to peaceful protest.

Police Deployment and Government Response

Jakarta police deployed a significant force of 18,500 officers and detained 65 individuals prior to the march, citing suspicions that they were attempting to incite unrest. Police spokesperson Budi Hermanto stated these detentions were made on suspicion of being “provocateurs”. Chief Security Minister Djamari Chaniago asserted that the large deployment was intended to facilitate peaceful expression rather than suppress it, stating, “We will escort them so that their aspirations can be conveyed properly.”

The situation remained tense following the clashes between protesters and police, with lawmakers now facing a self-imposed deadline to address the demands for anti-corruption legislation. Further developments are expected as parliament considers the stalled asset seizure bill.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.