After Meeting Prabowo, Chatib Basri Addresses Finance Minister Speculation

Jakarta - National Economic Council (DEN) member Chatib Basri has spoken out about speculation that he will replace Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa. He denied receiving such an offer from the President. ‘No such thing. We discussed the economy,’ Chatib told reporters on Tuesday (9/6/2026). Chatib was seen being summoned to the Palace alongside DEN Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan and other members including Septian Hario Seto and Firman Hidayat. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin was also seen entering the palace complex, although he was attending a separate meeting. During the meeting, the DEN merely provided a report on the latest economic conditions and the Free Nutritious Meals programme. Discussions also included the planned implementation of GovTech, the planned implementation of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia, and the development of an international financial centre or family office in Bali. Chatib also confirmed that Budi Gunadi Sadikin did not attend the meeting. ‘No, no, that was just with DEN,’ he said. Rumours had previously circulated that Chatib might replace Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, with Budi Gunadi Sadikin also mentioned as a strong candidate.