PDIP on the Moment Prabowo and Megawati Held Hands: A Sincere Friendship

The moment President Prabowo Subianto and the 5th President of Indonesia, who also serves as the Chairperson of the PDI Perjuangan Central Executive Board, Megawati Soekarnoputri, held hands during the Pancasila Day Ceremony at the Pancasila Building, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jakarta, remains a subject of public discussion, including among domestic politicians.

PDI Perjuangan Chairperson Said Abdullah assessed the relationship between Megawati and Prabowo through several lenses. Firstly, he highlighted their long-standing friendship, noting that the two have been friends for decades and were even running mates in the 2009 Presidential Election. He noted that this bond has continued despite subsequent political contests, such as the 2014 and 2019 elections where Megawati’s party nominated Joko Widodo against Prabowo.

“Their friendship is robust; it is not merely a superficial connection often perceived by the public. Their friendship is sincere and without flaw,” said Said, as quoted in a press release on Tuesday.

Secondly, Said, who also serves as the Chair of the Budget Committee of the House of Representatives (DPR), noted that despite the change in presidency, Prabowo has continued to entrust Megawati with significant state duties, such as her roles in the Presidential Staff Office for Pancasila Ideology Development (BPIP) and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). He stated that President Prabowo recognises Megawati’s statesmanship, suggesting that their shared responsibilities transcend practical politics.

Thirdly, Said argued that the relationship is built upon a foundation of national political vision. He noted that while PDI Perjuangan serves as a balancing force in parliament, Prabowo does not view them as enemies. He pointed to Prabowo’s recent speech during the DPR Plenary Session on 20 May, where the President expressed respect and appreciation for the input provided by PDI Perjuangkan members in the DPR.

“To me, these two figures have reached a level of ‘politics beyond,’ engaging in politics for the nation and state rather than solely for power,” Said added. He noted that this exemplary relationship is being followed by the PDI Perjuangkan and Gerindra factions in the DPR, which maintain an ability to discuss and exchange views on government policies and programmes despite differing perspectives.

Furthermore, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono shared a positive view of the moment, describing the sight of Prabowo and Megawati holding hands as a soothing spectacle during the Pancasila commemoration. He remarked that the unity of central figures provides a sense of stability that is vital for the nation, particularly for the agricultural sector, stating that national unity ensures the success of collective efforts and food security.