Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto appears poised to become Indonesia’s next president, with unofficial tallies indicating a clear majority in the initial round of voting. He has positioned himself as the successor to President Joko Widodo, pledging to continue the nation’s modernization efforts that have propelled it into the ranks of middle-income countries.
However, Subianto’s ascension is shadowed by concerns regarding environmental degradation, human rights abuses, and his ties to Indonesia’s dictatorial past under Suharto. Despite these issues, he has embraced Widodo’s popularity, even selecting Widodo’s son as his running mate, sparking fears of an emerging political dynasty.
While the official results are pending, early counts suggest Subianto has secured over 55% of the vote in a three-way contest. Born into a powerful family with political roots, Subianto’s father served as a minister under both Sukarno and Suharto.
Subianto’s own military career saw him involved in Indonesia’s National Army Special Force and implicated in alleged human rights violations, particularly during the occupation of East Timor. He was banned from the U.S. due to these allegations until 2020 when the ban was lifted to accommodate his role as defense minister.
Married to Suharto’s daughter, Subianto’s tenure in the military ended dishonorably following accusations of involvement in the abduction and torture of political opponents. He spent years in self-imposed exile before returning to Indonesia and founding the Gerinda Party.
Despite past controversies, Subianto has garnered support from former democracy activists, emphasizing reconciliation and downplaying international criticism. His promises to continue economic development, including the controversial Nusantara project, raise concerns about conflicts of interest due to his family’s business ties.
Subianto’s victory speech emphasized unity and inclusivity, promising to lead for the benefit of all Indonesians regardless of background. His alliance with Widodo’s family and engagement with youth through social media and soft imagery signal a strategic shift in his political approach.
However, his past connections with hard-line Islamists and ongoing challenges related to human rights and environmental sustainability cast a shadow over his incoming presidency. Indonesia’s future under Subianto’s leadership remains uncertain, balancing economic growth with social and environmental responsibilities.
