Mass Protests in Indonesia Against Election Law Changes

Thousands of protesters stormed Indonesia's parliament, delaying a vote on controversial election law changes aimed at enhancing President Joko Widodo's political influence. Activists, students, and celebrities voiced concerns about democracy. The legislature faced widespread condemnation and failed to achieve a quorum. Protests spread to multiple major cities.

In a dramatic turn of events on Thursday, thousands of protesters attempted to breach Indonesia's parliament, dismantling a section of fencing and throwing stones at police. The unrest forced legislators to delay a vote on contentious changes to election laws, perceived to amplify the political clout of outgoing President Joko Widodo.

The legislative body had convened an emergency session to overturn a Constitutional Court ruling on election procedures, while also amending other aspects. Demonstrators brandished banners, ignited fires, and burned tires in their display of dissatisfaction. The Constitutional Court had recently dismissed a challenge against an age limit, barring individuals under 30 from contesting governorships, impacting Widodo's son, Kaesang Pangarep, who is 29.

The legislature's failure to achieve a quorum for the emergency session underscores the widespread disapproval both online and on the streets. Critics fear a looming constitutional crisis. Demonstrations spread across major cities like Bandung, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, and Makassar, united in their demand for the preservation of democratic principles and a rejection of political dynasties.

(With inputs from agencies.)