Pasbata Reminds that Criticism Must be Responsible, Not Sowing Discord

The Chairman of Pasukan Bawah Tanah Prabowo (Pasbata), David Febrian, has criticised the development of narratives that no longer constitute mere criticism but instead aim to delegitimise the legitimate government. He alluded to statements circulating in public spaces, including those made by Saiful Mujani, Islah Bahrawi, and Feri Amsari.

According to him, the communication patterns being built have crossed the boundaries of reasonable criticism and tend to encourage the delegitimisation of the state. “If criticism is based on data and solutions, it is healthy. But if the narrative built suggests that the government is not working, that the people are being ignored, that is no longer criticism, it is dangerous provocation,” David said in a press release in Jakarta on Tuesday (7/4/2026).

He even described such approaches as irresponsible methods that have the potential to damage the democratic order. “This is a cowardly way. It seeks to undermine public trust without confronting it openly through democratic mechanisms,” David stated.

According to him, various government priority programmes, such as the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and the strengthening of education through the People’s School, are concrete evidence of the state’s work that cannot simply be ignored in public narratives. “Real programmes exist, real work is underway. But they are deliberately not discussed. Instead, negative narratives are highlighted. This is not objective,” David said.