Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is working to reshape his public image as a relatable and friendly leader, using social media and campaigns appealing to the youth. Despite efforts to distance himself from his controversial past, including accusations of human rights violations during his military service, critics remain skeptical of his democratic credentials. As he promises ambitious reforms like free school lunches, concerns persist about nepotism and the future of democracy in Indonesia under his leadership.
Indonesia’s President Prabowo is on a mission to reshape his public persona. Presenting himself as approachable and affable, he faces skepticism, as many question his commitment to democratic values.
After winning the election in February, Prabowo Subianto celebrated with a lively social media campaign that included a catchy song and dance routine, striking a chord particularly on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Even his pet cat Bobby enjoys popularity with its own Instagram account, as Prabowo adopts the image of a ‘friendly grandfather.’ His likeness has been featured on charming cartoons displayed on posters and screens nationwide.
The 73-year-old figure has a controversial background. During Indonesia’s military dictatorship, he has been accused of involvement in human rights abuses while serving as commander of the special forces. Notably, his father-in-law was the infamous military leader Suharto, who held power until 1998 and is linked to numerous atrocities.
Prabowo still enjoys backing from the military, having most recently held the position of Minister of Defense.
Rebranding Amid Serious Accusations
Despite his troubled past, Prabowo has successfully rebranded himself to appeal to a youthful populace, with an average age of around 29. Many Indonesians are connected through digital channels.
“As a strong leader, he has portrayed himself as more accommodating,” notes political scientist Hurriyah from the University of Indonesia. However, she asserts that Prabowo’s roots are in hard populism rather than true democratic principles.
Pasts that Resist Erasure
Prabowo’s history cannot simply be overlooked. Human rights activists, such as José Luis de Oliveira from Timor-Leste, accuse him of playing a role in grave crimes during his military tenure, including a notorious massacre and enforced disappearances.
Despite these allegations, Prabowo has never faced legal repercussions, remaining uncharged for events from the 1990s, including the abduction and torture of pro-democracy activists.
Following Suharto’s downfall, Prabowo spent time in exile in Jordan before transitioning into business. More recently, he served as defense minister under President Joko Widodo.
As Indonesia approaches the upcoming elections, Widodo’s presidency is set to conclude. What will his legacy be?
Ambitious Goals Ahead
In the run-up to the 2024 elections, Prabowo has made bold promises to eradicate extreme poverty and launch a free school lunch initiative.
Currently, a pilot program in a southwest Jakarta school provides students with meals of rice, vegetables, fruit, and milk. Youth activist Najla Indah, who supports Prabowo’s campaign, calls it “a valuable initiative, especially for children from low-income backgrounds.”
With around 100 million Indonesians living in poverty, this lunch program resonates strongly with low-wage earners.
Indonesia is also in the process of constructing a new capital on Borneo, although this initiative has faced its share of negative publicity.
Strained Relationships with Europe
Prabowo’s summer meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin showcased their growing ties, especially in defense. His administration aims to strengthen relations with both China and the United States.
Conversely, Prabowo has criticized Europe, especially after the EU proposed a ban on palm oil imports, asserting that Indonesia can thrive without European cooperation. Nonetheless, he intends to maintain the country’s stance of non-alignment in foreign affairs.
Democracy in Jeopardy?
In a strategic move, Prabowo appointed the son of the immensely popular former president Widodo as his vice president, aiming to signal continuity. However, critics express concerns about nepotism.
Despite Prabowo’s friendly rebranding as a ‘cuddly grandpa,’ there are rising worries regarding the potential erosion of democratic principles under his leadership.