Prabowo Subianto was inaugurated as Indonesia’s eighth President, transitioning from a controversial military background to national leadership. At 73, he is expected to continue the policies of his predecessor, Joko Widodo, with a focus on stability and economic growth amid global challenges. Subianto’s vice president is Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Widodo’s son, highlighting a political alliance formed from past rivalries. The inauguration was marked by the attendance of over 40 international dignitaries.
On Sunday, Indonesia witnessed the inauguration of Prabowo Subianto as its eighth President, marking a significant milestone in the political landscape of the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation. This ceremony brought to fruition Mr. Subianto’s remarkable political transformation from an ex-General, once accused of human rights violations during Indonesia’s military dictatorship period, to the Presidential palace in Jakarta. The 73-year-old former Defense Minister was greeted by throngs of supporters as he took his oath on the Quran, the holy scripture of Islam, in the presence of lawmakers and dignitaries from over 40 nations, including prominent leaders from countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, and China. His presidential journey saw him emerge as a formidable figure, having previously challenged the widely admired President Joko Widodo on two occasions, although he ultimately accepted the latter’s appointment of him as defense chief post-re-election. During the presidential campaign, Mr. Subianto positioned himself as the legitimate successor to Mr. Widodo, pledging to uphold significant policies initiated by the outgoing president, which included major projects like the development of a new capital city and regulations designed to enhance domestic industry by limiting raw material exports. His December victory in the direct presidential election was significantly buoyed by his alignment with Mr. Widodo’s legacy. In a testament to their transformed political alliance, Mr. Subianto nominated Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the son of Mr. Widodo, as his vice presidential candidate, thereby consolidating their political factions. Nonetheless, with Mr. Subianto’s ascent to leadership, much uncertainty looms regarding his governance style and policies for Indonesia—a nation characterized by its diverse culture and economy, which is presently grappling with global economic challenges and regional geopolitical tensions, especially in light of the broader U.S.-China rivalry.
The political narrative surrounding Prabowo Subianto’s inauguration is steeped in Indonesia’s tumultuous history. Once a military general, Mr. Subianto was implicated in severe human rights violations during the late 1990s, which led to his departure from the military and subsequent exile. However, his return to politics, facilitated by appointment as defense chief, marked a pivotal turn in his career, allowing him to re-enter the political arena with renewed vigor. The election of Mr. Subianto as president underscores a shift towards continuity and stability amid potential uncertainty in his governance approach as he seeks to leverage Indonesia’s rich natural resources while navigating complex international relations and internal dynamics.
In conclusion, Prabowo Subianto’s inauguration as Indonesia’s president signifies a notable transformation from a controversial military figure to the leader of a nation poised on the cusp of significant economic and geopolitical challenges. His promises of continuity coupled with significant endorsements from the previous administration suggest a stable but cautious political environment. However, how he will actualize his policies and manage Indonesia’s diverse population remains a critical point of observation for both local and international communities.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
