AHY's Criticism Acknowledged, Prabowo Expresses Gratitude

President Prabowo Subianto’s response to Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono’s political speech demonstrates that differences in opinion within the government do not necessarily have to lead to political fractures.

At the peak of the 25th Anniversary celebration of the Democratic Party at the Indonesia Arena, Jakarta, on Wednesday (9/9), in the presence of Vice President Gibran Rakabulating Raka, Speaker of the House Puan Maharani, and the 6th President of Indonesia Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Prabowo chose to appreciate AHY’s speech, which had been interpreted by some as a critique of the government a few days prior.

Last weekend, AHY touched upon several issues in his speech, ranging from the time-limited nature of power and the neutrality of the TNI-Polri (Military and Police) and civil servants, to the supremacy of law and the economic condition of the people.

The speech was subsequently interpreted in various political ways by politicians and observers alike. Some linked it to potential moves by SBY’s son towards the 2029 Presidential Election, while others saw it as the emergence of a political force preparing for the next contest.

However, rather than refuting or viewing the speech as a threat to his administration, President Prabowo stated that criticism and correction must be accepted within a democratic life.

Prabowo noted that AHY’s speech was delivered in a systematic and firm manner. According to him, a nation that chooses democracy must be capable of accepting criticism from fellow political forces.

This statement demonstrates that criticism does not always need to be met with suspicion, nor with accusations that the speaker is building an opposition.

In politics, especially within a large coalition, differences of opinion are difficult to avoid. Every party has its own history, voter base, organisational interests, and political calculations. Shared positions within a government do not automatically erase all such differences.

Prabowo then directed his response towards his personal relationship and political journey with SBY. Both are retired TNI generals who chose to enter politics through parties and elections.

Prabowo even admitted that he