24-4-2024 (JAKARTA) President-elect Prabowo Subianto, after his confirmation ceremony on Wednesday, pledged to champion the interests of all Indonesians and urged political elites to unite for the nation’s advancement as he prepares to assume office in October.
Addressing the gathering, Prabowo emphasized the importance of collaboration among political factions, stressing the need for collective action for the nation’s welfare.
Prabowo, who secured a decisive victory in the February 14 election with significant popular support, affirmed his commitment to represent all citizens, irrespective of their voting preferences.
“I will demonstrate my dedication to the welfare of every Indonesian, regardless of their electoral choice,” Prabowo declared. “For Indonesia to prosper and endure, it is imperative for all elites to collaborate. Let us set aside our differences, embrace patriotism, and work together for the greater good of our nation.”
The confirmation ceremony follows the Constitutional Court’s dismissal of challenges from defeated candidates seeking electoral reconsideration, thereby concluding all election-related disputes.
In his address, Prabowo outlined his agenda to eradicate poverty and combat corruption, underscoring his vision for inclusive progress.
Additionally, he underscored the crucial role of a free press in upholding democracy, describing it as indispensable for the nation’s democratic framework.
Coalition-building efforts are underway as Prabowo seeks to strengthen his parliamentary support. Currently, his coalition holds 48% of parliamentary seats, but he aims to expand it to secure a majority.
Post-election, Prabowo has engaged in discussions with parties beyond his coalition, including NasDem and PKB, aligning with Anies Baswedan’s presidential bid, one of the defeated candidates and former Jakarta governor.
Securing the backing of these parties would bolster Prabowo’s coalition, mirroring the multi-party coalition led by the incumbent President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo.
Gerindra, Prabowo’s party and the third-largest in parliament post-election, expressed intentions to engage with PDIP, the largest party, led by Megawati Sukarnoputri.
Amidst these political maneuvers, PDIP clarified that Jokowi, though supported Prabowo, is no longer affiliated with the party, signaling a strategic political recalibration aimed at preserving his influence and legacy post-tenure.
