Gibran Rakabuming Raka
- Known for
- Vice President of Indonesia, Mayor of Surakarta
- Born in
- Surakarta, Indonesia
- Education
- BSc Marketing, University of Bradford
Gibran Rakabuming Raka is an Indonesian politician and businessman who assumed the role of the 14th Vice President of Indonesia in 2024 at the age of 36. As the eldest child of former President Joko Widodo, his political rise has been marked by both significant popularity and intense controversy regarding his rapid ascent.
Signature Positions
Gibran's brief political career before the vice presidency highlights several key areas of focus:
- Artificial Intelligence: Initiated the integration of AI studies into the national school curriculum, emphasizing prompt-making skills for students.
- Solo Mayorship: Achieved high popularity during his tenure (2021–2024), marked by proactive COVID-19 responses and significant campaign spending.
- Business Background: Successfully founded and ran catering and food businesses, including Chilli Pari and Markobar, before entering politics.
- Relocation to Nusantara: Currently overseeing the relocation of the Vice Presidential office and residence to the new capital city, Nusantara.
Notable Tensions
Gibran's entry into high office has generated significant debate and criticism:
- Nepotism and Age Controversy: His vice-presidential candidacy was enabled by a Constitutional Court ruling allowing an age exception, leading to allegations of dynastic politics and ethical breaches by the KPU.
- Public Gaffes: Gaffes during the campaign, such as suggesting pregnant mothers consume sulfuric acid instead of folic acid, led to ridicule and the nickname 'Samsul'.
- Controversial Associations: Faced scrutiny over alleged connections to the Fufufafa social media account, which posted derogatory content about political figures.
- Impeachment Threat: Despite holding office, he faces threats of impeachment proceedings stemming from the controversial nature of his candidacy, though the DPR has yet to initiate formal action.
Gibran's profile is defined by his lineage and youth. He is the youngest Indonesian Vice President in history, entering office with little executive experience outside his two-year term as mayor. His current activities, including setting up a separate complaint hotline, suggest preparations for a potential 2029 presidential bid.
