Megawati Asserts the Republic Belongs to All, Not a Select Few
Former Fifth President of the Republic of Indonesia, Megawati Soekarnoputri, has asserted that the Republic of Indonesia does not belong to any individual or specific group, but rather to all its people. This statement was delivered in a scientific oration at the inauguration ceremony for Professor Emeritus in Constitutional Law, Arief Hidayat, at Borobudur University in Jakarta on Saturday, 2 May 2026.
In her speech, Megawati highlighted the importance of upholding the fundamental principles of the republic as a public entity. She expressed concern over narratives that seemingly position the state as the possession of a select few. “The Republic of Indonesia belongs to all of us,” she stressed in front of the attending academics and legal figures.
Furthermore, Megawati criticised discussions on changes to the General Election system, particularly proposals for indirect elections. She views the direct election of the president as a mandate of the reform era that provides strong legitimacy from the people to national leaders.
According to her, the high cost of elections cannot be used as a basis for altering the democratic system. She even compared it to the 1955 General Election, which she deemed to have run well despite the limitations of the time. “If now it’s said that the costs are high, that seems odd to me,” she stated.
Megawati also reminded that a president elected directly by the people must safeguard the constitution and avoid compromises that could weaken the nation’s political or economic sovereignty.
On that occasion, she also addressed symptoms of uniformity in state institutions, including the legislature and judiciary. She criticised the emergence of a “keep the boss happy” culture and a “ready, commander” mentality, which she believes could erode the independence of state institutions and legal justice.
Drawing from her past experiences, Megawati warned of the dangers when decisions are made solely based on superiors’ orders without considering legal truth. She asserted that such conditions could eliminate the sense of justice in the state system.
Megawati also appreciated Arief Hidayat’s stance in delivering a dissenting opinion at the Constitutional Court as a form of intellectual courage and integrity in upholding the law.
Concluding her oration, Megawati called on academics and students to continue safeguarding the voice of conscience in guiding justice. She emphasised the importance of law siding with the people so that state institutions do not become mere tools of power, but remain grounded in public interest.