Prabowo Subianto Sworn in as Indonesia’s New President

Prabowo Subianto has officially become the president of Indonesia, the world's third-largest democracy, after winning the country’s election earlier this year. 

The 73-year-old former special forces commander secured nearly 60% of the vote in the February 14 election. His campaign focused on policies like providing free meals to schoolchildren, and he ran alongside Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the 37-year-old son of outgoing President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo.

On Sunday, Prabowo was sworn in as Indonesia's eighth president during a ceremony held at Indonesia’s parliament. Dressed in a traditional black hat, navy suit, and a woven maroon and golden sarong, 

Prabowo took the oath of office in front of the parliament and his supporters. His running mate, Gibran, also attended the event, marking a significant moment in Indonesian politics. Flower boards outside the presidential palace carried messages of congratulations for Prabowo and Gibran, while others thanked Jokowi for his ten years of leadership.

Prabowo’s Election Victory

Prabowo’s win marks a major shift in Indonesia’s leadership. He previously ran for the presidency twice, but this time, his campaign proved successful, drawing support from various parts of the population. Over the past nine months, Prabowo has been working to build a strong parliamentary coalition to back his leadership.

In his campaign, Prabowo promised to continue the work started by Jokowi, focusing on growth, infrastructure, and self-sufficiency. He presented himself as the “continuity candidate,” appealing to both voters and investors with a vision of stability and progress for Indonesia.

Supporters of Jokowi and Prabowo Unite

As Prabowo prepared to take office, many supporters of outgoing President Jokowi also gathered to say goodbye to their leader. Jokowi, who served two terms as president, leaves a legacy of strong economic growth and major infrastructure projects. His decade in power brought many changes to the country, which has a population of 280 million people.

[Outgoing president Joko Widodo attended the inauguration of Prabowo in Jakarta. (EPA PHOTO)]

One bystander, Anneta Yuniar, waved excitedly at Jokowi’s motorcade as it passed by on the way to the swearing-in ceremony. She said she would miss Jokowi but believed Prabowo would carry on his work. “Prabowo will continue the development that Jokowi started,” she said. “It’s what I want.”

Jokowi’s Legacy and Criticism

During his two terms, Jokowi made significant strides in improving Indonesia's infrastructure and economy. Many Indonesians view his time in office as a period of growth and positive change. However, some critics have pointed out issues such as increased political patronage and the rise of dynastic politics. They have also raised concerns about the weakening of institutions like the courts during Jokowi's rule.

Prabowo now faces the challenge of addressing these concerns while pushing forward with his own policies. He has set a goal of accelerating Indonesia's economic growth from 5% to 8%. He also aims to make the country more self-sufficient in the production of basic goods like food.

[Supporters lined the streets in Jakarta to cheer Prabowo en route to his inauguration ceremony. (EPA PHOTO)]

Global Leaders Attend Inauguration

Prabowo’s inauguration attracted global attention, with foreign dignitaries attending the ceremony at the presidential palace. Around 20 heads of state were expected to meet with the new president on Sunday. China sent its Vice President, Han Zheng, while the United States was represented by Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US Ambassador to the United Nations.

Challenges and Controversies

While Prabowo’s presidency is seen by many as a continuation of Jokowi’s progress, his past has raised some concerns. 

Allegations of involvement in human rights abuses, particularly in Papua and East Timor, have followed him throughout his political career. These claims stem from his time in the military in the 1990s, when he faced accusations of kidnapping student activists and other abuses. 

These incidents led to his dismissal from the military in 1998, during the fall of Suharto's authoritarian rule in Indonesia.

Prabowo has always denied these accusations, but they remain a topic of concern for human rights groups and some parts of the public. As president, Prabowo will need to navigate these issues while focusing on his goals for Indonesia’s future.

A New Chapter for Indonesia

Prabowo’s rise to the presidency marks a new chapter for Indonesia, as the country looks to the future under his leadership. 

With his ambitious goals for economic growth and a desire to play a more active role on the global stage, Prabowo is positioning himself as a leader focused on stability, development, and continuity. 

His presidency will be closely watched by both Indonesians and the international community as he works to build on the foundations laid by Jokowi while addressing the challenges that lie ahead.