Janice R. Andrews
Indonesia Inaugurates Prabowo Subianto as President
Indonesia welcomed its eighth president as Prabowo Subianto took the oath of office on Sunday, with the 73-year-old former general stepping into the nation’s highest office. The inauguration, which drew thousands of spectators to Jakarta’s streets, also saw Gibran Rakabuming Raka, 37, sworn in as vice president. Notably, Gibran is the son of departing President Joko Widodo.
Following his decisive victory in February’s election with approximately 60% of votes, Subianto delivered an inaugural address emphasizing national unity and inclusive governance. He specifically pledged to serve all Indonesians, including those who didn’t support his candidacy.
The path to Subianto’s presidency represents a remarkable political transformation. Once a fierce opponent who lost to Joko Widodo in both 2014 and 2019 elections, he later formed an alliance with his former rival. This partnership, solidified by choosing Widodo’s son as his running mate, proved crucial to his electoral success. Subianto has promised to maintain Widodo’s key policies, including the ambitious project to relocate the capital to Borneo.
On foreign policy, Subianto reinforced Indonesia’s traditional non-aligned stance while expressing support for Palestine and promising increased aid to Gaza. His inauguration attracted international representatives, including officials from Britain, China, and the United States.
However, Subianto’s presidency begins against a backdrop of historical controversy. His military career in the late 1990s remains a point of contention, with unresolved allegations of human rights violations, particularly in East Timor. While Subianto has consistently denied these accusations, human rights advocates continue to express concern about potential implications for Indonesia’s democratic future.
As Indonesia’s new leader, Subianto faces the complex task of balancing domestic development with international relations, particularly managing ties between China and Western allies, while addressing ongoing questions about his past and his commitment to democratic values.
