Analyst Views Prabowo's Communication as Egalitarian

The communication style of Prabowo Subianto during the Lebaran moment is assessed as reflecting an equal or egalitarian approach. Political communication observer from Esa Unggul University, M. Jamiluddin Ritonga, evaluates that this communication pattern demonstrates a worldview that does not differentiate social status. According to him, this step indicates that Prabowo views all parties on an equal footing.

He states that Prabowo’s openness in communicating is one of the main characteristics that stands out. “This indicates that Prabowo is a figure who views humans in equality. This perspective makes Prabowo open to communicating with anyone without regard to socio-economic status,” he said when contacted on Monday (23/3).

In addition, respect is also reflected in his interactions with predecessors. Prabowo is said to have shown respect when directly receiving former presidents at the Palace, as well as when interacting with the public after Eid prayers and during the open house agenda.

“Prabowo is also a figure who respects his predecessors. He demonstrated this by directly receiving former presidents when they came to the Palace for Lebaran,” said Jamiluddin.

This communication approach, he continued, is built on the basis of empathy and honesty, making it feel warmer. He assesses that Prabowo’s enthusiasm in interacting with various layers of society, including ordinary citizens, strengthens this impression.

“This gives meaning that Prabowo is trying to build communication with anyone based on empathy. This kind of communication is usually based on honesty,” said Jamiluddin.

Furthermore, he assesses that the communication pattern shown by Prabowo reflects an egalitarian character that aligns with democratic principles. “So, the communication built by Prabowo with various layers of society is far from pretence. This makes Prabowo’s communication impressive in its sincerity,” he explained.

Nevertheless, Jamiluddin reminds that this communication style needs to be supported by the president’s closest environment. He assesses that the core team around Prabowo needs to be able to represent the same communication approach so that the messages conveyed remain consistent.

“This is necessary so that Prabowo’s inner circle can express Prabowo as an empathetic, democratic figure who respects equality,” he concluded.