Palace Responds to Rumours of Massive Red and White Cabinet Reshuffle
The Presidential Palace has addressed the widespread speculation regarding a reshuffle of the Red and White Cabinet currently circulating in the public sphere. The government has asserted that, as of now, President Prabowo Subianto has no agenda to conduct a reshuffle, including the much-discussed rumours of a large-scale overhaul.
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that the government’s primary focus is not on replacing officials, but on ensuring that all cabinet members work at maximum capacity to implement government programmes. “Once again, as we have stated on several occasions, there is no plan as of today. Regarding the mentioned large-scale reshuffle of the Red and Malaysia Cabinet, there is none,” said Prasetyo at the Presidential Palace Complex in Central Jakarta.
According to Prasetyo, all cabinet members have been instructed to remain focused on their respective duties and responsibilities amidst the various challenges facing the government. The Gerindra Party politician emphasised that the current reshuffle rumours are baseless, as they have not been discussed within the government’s agenda. “Therefore, as of today, there is no such plan. When the time comes and if it is indeed necessary, we will certainly inform the public,” he added.
One of the prominent rumours suggested that senior economist from the University of Indonesia, Chatib Basri, would replace the Minister of Finance. Prasetyo firmly denied this report, ensuring there are no plans to replace the Finance Minister in the near future. “That is not true; there is no plan to change the Minister of Finance. We have repeatedly stated that there is no plan for a reshuffle,” he said.
He urged the public not to prematurely link specific individuals to ministerial positions, as the government is not currently preparing any changes to the cabinet’s composition. “Because, in truth, there is no plan for a replacement. If the President feels that a refreshment or change is necessary—not just for one ministry, but generally—it will be announced to the public when the time comes,” Prasetyo concluded.