PKS Supports Cabinet Recruitment of Non-Party Professionals, PDIP Says It's the President's Prerogative

The Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) has expressed support for President Prabowo Subianto to appoint individuals with strong capacity and integrity to the cabinet, even if they are not members of political parties. Mardani Ali Sera, Head of the PKS Election Winning Body, stated that a merit system should be a consideration. “It is good if the government wants to recruit people known to the public for their capacity and integrity. If necessary, professionals, not necessarily party people. There are many qualified sons and daughters of the nation,” Mardani said on Sunday (9/8/2026). He also noted the need for bureaucratic reform, pointing to recent survey results indicating a decline in public satisfaction with the government’s performance.

In response to the reshuffle speculation, Andreas Hugo Pareira, Chair of the PDIP Central Executive Board, stated on Monday (10/8/2026) that the decision is entirely the president’s prerogative. “It is up to the President. It is the president’s prerogative,” Andreas said. He added that whether a reshuffle is necessary or not, and who might be replaced, is fully under the president’s authority. The speculation suggests a minor reshuffle may occur after 17 August 2026, primarily to fill currently vacant positions.