Gerindra States Megawati is an Example of an Elegant Leader Despite PDIP's Frequent Criticism of Prabowo

The Deputy Chairman of the Gerindra Party, Habiburokhman, stated that the 5th President of the Republic of Indonesia and Chairperson of PDIP, Megawati Soekarnoputri, serves as an example of an elegant national figure, even while not being part of the government coalition. According to him, Megawati maintains a good relationship with President Prabowo Subianto and demonstrates mutual respect, even though several PDIP cadres frequently criticise the Prabowo Subianto administration.

“As a former President, she respects Mr Prabowo as the current sitting President,” said Habiburokhman at the parliamentary complex in Jakarta on Tuesday, 2 June 2026. He made these remarks in response to the moment when Prabowo and Megawati were seen holding hands during the Pancasila Day celebrations at the Pancasila Building, Jakarta, on Monday, 1 June 2026.

He noted that while criticisms from PDIP cadres towards the Prabowo administration are legitimate, Megawati’s stance as the highest leader of PDIP maintains their relationship to limit polarisation. “This is an elegant example from Mrs Mega; we hold her in high regard and respect the example set by her,” he said.

Furthermore, he stated that Megawati’s actions stand in contrast to those of other former high-ranking state officials, specifically former Deputy Foreign Minister Dino Patti Djalal. He argued that former officials should respect the processes being undertaken by those currently in government. He added that despite serving for only three months, Dino remains a former high-ranking official. “In my view, there is an ethic among those who have previously held office. It means giving the opportunity to those currently in office to work and showing respect,” said the Chairman of Commission III of the DPR RI.

Previously, President Prabowo Subianto and the 5th President of Indonesia, Megawati Soekarnioptri, demonstrated their closeness while attending the Pancasila Day commemoration ceremony at the Pancasila Building, Jakarta, on Monday, 1 June 2026. Following the ceremony, Prabowo and Megawati were seen leaving the venue smiling and holding hands. In addition to Megawati, Prabowo was seen conversing with several national figures, including the 10th and 12th Vice President Jusuf Kalla and the 13th Vice President Ma’ruf Amin.