Hasto States Prabowo's Governance Challenges Stem from Jokowi Era

Secretary-General of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), Hasto Kristiyanto, made a sharp statement regarding current government dynamics. He assessed that the major challenges faced by President Prabowo Subianto, spanning economic and fiscal sectors, are longstanding issues rooted in the second term of former President Joko Widodo (Jokowi).

Hasto stressed the need for objectivity in assessing the national situation, asserting that the Prabowo administration cannot be wholly blamed for current conditions.

‘PDI-P believes it is crucial to maintain objectivity when viewing the national landscape. The economic, fiscal, governance, and social challenges currently confronting President Prabowo are largely inheritances from Joko Widodo’s second administration,’ Hasto stated in Jakarta on Monday, 1 June 2026.

His remarks came in response to the warm interaction between President Prabowo and former President Megawati Soekarnoputri, the PDI-P chairman and Indonesia’s fifth president, during the Pancasila Day commemoration at the Pancasila Hall, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Hasto viewed the cordiality between the two national figures as a positive signal for national stability, noting that challenges left by previous administrations require collective effort rather than unilateral burden.

‘Therefore, national unity and collaboration from all societal elements are needed to assist the government in finding the best solutions,’ he added.

Observations at the event showed President Prabowo showing deep respect by stepping down from the podium to shake Megawati’s hand. Both were seen walking side by side, smiling, after the ceremony concluded.

The occasion was also attended by other national figures, including Jusuf Kalla and Ma’ruf Amin. For PDI-P, this warmth is not merely ceremonial but reflects a spirit of mutual cooperation in tackling crises.

‘Mrs Megawati and President Prabowo have both demonstrated mutual respect as national figures bearing historical responsibility for Indonesia’s future,’ Hasto concluded.

As of publication, relevant parties from the previous administration had not issued an official response to PDI-P’s secretary-general’s ‘legacy of problems’ remarks. (Dev/I-1)