Former Indonesian Army General Takes Oath as President

Former General Prabowo Subianto was sworn in as Indonesia’s President on Sunday, aiming to elevate the country’s status on the global stage. The 73-year-old nationalist, who has faced accusations of human rights abuses during his military career, took the oath in parliament, succeeding outgoing leader Joko Widodo.

“I swear that I will fulfill the duties of the President of the Republic of Indonesia as best as possible and as fairly as possible,” Prabowo stated during the ceremony.

Prabowo has pledged to uphold Indonesia’s non-aligned foreign policy while adopting a bolder approach internationally. His first visit as president was to China, followed by trips to numerous other countries, including Russia and Australia, where he signed an important security agreement.

He steps into leadership of Southeast Asia’s largest economy, which boasts the world’s largest nickel reserves and a population of 280 million, with nearly half under the age of 30. Prabowo achieved a significant victory in the February elections, bolstered by the support of his running mate, Gibran Rakabuming Raka—the 37-year-old son of Widodo—and ambitious campaign promises, including a $28 billion free meal plan for children.

Dressed in traditional attire, the former defense minister delivered an impassioned speech to lawmakers, who responded with applause and chants of his name. “We will lead the Indonesian government… by prioritizing the interests of all Indonesians, including those who did not vote for us,” he declared.

He emphasized his commitment to a “peaceful democracy,” a “good neighbor” policy, and acknowledged the need to tackle corruption at all levels, ending his speech with shouts of “freedom!” Prabowo then traveled from parliament to the presidential palace in Jakarta, greeting supporters from his car.

The inauguration was attended by several diplomats, including British Foreign Minister David Lammy and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng. Chinese President Xi Jinping sent congratulations, expressing a desire for “close strategic communication” with Indonesia’s new leader.

Security was tight in Jakarta, with around 100,000 police and military personnel deployed, as tens of thousands lined the streets to witness Prabowo’s inauguration as Indonesia’s eighth leader since independence from Dutch colonial rule in 1945.

While supporters celebrated Prabowo’s ascension, critics pointed to his controversial past. NGOs and former military superiors accuse him of ordering the abduction of democracy activists during the late 1990s, with 23 activists reported missing. Prabowo has denied these allegations and was previously denied a U.S. visa due to his human rights record.

Concerns persist about the implications of Prabowo’s presidency for democracy and human rights, according to Parker Novak, a non-resident fellow at the Atlantic Council.

In an effort to rehabilitate his image, Prabowo gained popularity among younger voters by presenting himself as a relatable figure. He frequently shared personal moments on social media, including pictures of his cats and viral dancing videos, depicting himself as an everyman candidate.

The inclusion of Gibran in the ticket sparked protests and accusations of nepotism, particularly after the age limit for candidates was lowered last year by Widodo’s brother-in-law, then chief justice. Gibran’s popularity is linked to his father’s successful leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw the country return to a 5% growth rate.

Prabowo has set ambitious goals, aiming for an 8% growth target. However, experts caution that his greatest challenge lies ahead on the global front. “He will have to navigate the inevitable tension between his country’s extensive economic relationship with China and its growing security partnerships with the United States and Australia,” Novak noted.