‘Feels like we’ve gone backwards’: Indonesia’s choking haze provides spark for wider protests
After two years, President Prabowo Subianto is struggling with economic malaise, policy blunders and a devastating fire season in the world’s third-largest democracy
TL;DR
- Indonesia is grappling with its worst fire season in a decade, with almost 2 million hectares burned, causing toxic air conditions and fatalities.
- Protests are occurring in Jakarta, with demonstrators demanding the government declare the fires a national disaster.
- Public grievances include policy blunders, economic stress, increased militarization, centralization of power, and attacks on the press.
- President Prabowo's flagship free meals program has been controversial, with allegations of corruption and children being poisoned by tainted food.
- A recent poll shows President Prabowo's approval rating at 44.5%, the lowest since polling began 20 years ago.
- Economically, Indonesia faces a sinking rupiah, high fuel lines, and potential downgrade by index provider MSCI.
- Analysts describe the current situation as volatile and unpredictable, with concerns about a lack of democratic openness and checks and balances compared to previous administrations.