Prabowo Subianto
- Known for
- Indonesian President, Former military officer, Political leader
- Born in
- Indonesia
- Education
- Graduate of Indonesian Military Academy, Indonesian Military Academy
Prabowo Subianto is an Indonesian politician, retired military officer, and businessman who became the eighth President of Indonesia in 2024. His career trajectory features a significant shift from military command under Suharto to high-level civilian office under his former rival, Joko Widodo (Minister of Defence 2019–2024).
His worldview blends nationalist, anti-neoliberal economic principles with a strong focus on military modernization and national self-sufficiency, positioning him as a major figure bridging Indonesia's past New Order era with its modern aspirations.
Signature Positions
Prabowo's governing platform centers on populist economic measures and an assertive, non-aligned foreign policy:
- Economy: Advocating a national-capitalist model, shifting away from free markets to prioritize national resource benefits, industrialization, and populist spending like the Free Meals Program.
- Defence Policy: Committed to modernizing the TNI through major acquisitions (Rafale jets, frigates) and reinforcing the Reserve Component doctrine.
- Foreign Policy: Embraces a pragmatic, active diplomacy modeled as "sailing between two reefs," leading Indonesia to join BRICS while maintaining respectful (but cautious) relations with the United States and China.
- Gaza Conflict: Took a strong moral stance against Western double standards regarding civilian casualties, proposing Indonesian peacekeeping troops for Gaza and conditional recognition of Israel contingent upon Palestinian independence.
How Views Have Evolved
Prabowo's political trajectory is marked by dramatic reconciliation with former rivals.
He transitioned from a fierce election opponent in 2019—leading to riots after he claimed victory—to serving as Joko Widodo's Minister of Defence (2019-2024) to preserve national unity.
This evolution continued when he selected Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Widodo's son, as his running mate for the 2024 election, solidifying an alliance with the incumbent administration he previously contested.
Notable Tensions
His return to power involves navigating significant historical and political contradictions:
- Authoritarianism: Critics point to his military background and attempts to revise the Armed Forces Act as potential steps to revive Dwifungsi (double role) and empower the military in civilian life.
- Human Rights Legacy: His military service, including alleged involvement in kidnapping of activists and East Timor abuses, remains a major controversy, despite his eventual political success and leadership roles.
- Economic Paradox: While promising socialist-inspired wealth distribution and budget efficiency cuts (Rp 306.6 trillion), his administration faces public outcry over policies like the Value-added Tax Hike on certain goods.
