Observer: Prabowo's Openness to Criticism Eases Fears of Authoritarianism

Political communication analyst M. Jamiluddin Ritonga assessed that President Prabowo Subianto’s reaffirmation of his openness to criticism serves as a positive signal for the sustainability of democracy in Indonesia. According to him, this stance simultaneously eases public concerns over the potential strengthening of authoritarian governance practices. Jamiluddin noted that Prabowo’s statements regarding openness to criticism have been made repeatedly on various occasions, demonstrating consistency. He said this consistency also serves as an answer to perceptions from some quarters that Prabowo is anti-criticism. The repetition of such statements is certainly reassuring, as it dispels fears that Indonesia will once again become an authoritarian state. Furthermore, Jamiluddin assessed that the President’s commitment to accepting criticism guarantees that Indonesia remains on a democratic path in accordance with the mandate of reform and the constitution. Therefore, he believes the public should no longer fear voicing criticism of the government or the President. Jamiluddin also urged the President’s inner circle and supporters to understand and embody this spirit of openness, stating that intimidatory actions against critics would only harm the President’s image. He emphasised that if intimidation against critics still occurs, the party most disadvantaged is the President himself. According to Jamiluddin, all elements of society must safeguard the democratic commitment affirmed by the President, as actions contrary to this spirit could be considered a betrayal of the commitment built by Prabowo.