PKS Supports President Prabowo Until 2029, Calls 'Acceleration' Discourse a Political Provocation
The Head of the PKS Presidential Staff Office, Pipin Sopian, has described the statement by Budi Arie Setiadi, known as the Chairman of Projo and former Minister of Cooperatives, regarding the possibility of an ‘acceleration’ before the 2029 General Election as an unhealthy political provocation that is dangerous for Indonesian democracy.
According to Pipin, such discourse should not be thrown into the public sphere without a clear explanation of what is meant by ‘acceleration’ and through what constitutional mechanism it would be carried out.
‘I see Budi Arie’s statement as a form of political provocation. The term ’acceleration’ before 2029 is not a light statement. It could trigger speculation, commotion and political uncertainty among the public,’ said the politician from Purwakarta in his statement on Wednesday (26/8).
The PKS spokesman stressed that Indonesia already has constitutional mechanisms governing the presidential term of office and the process of transferring power. Therefore, there must be no attempt to build public opinion as if a change or transfer of power could be carried out based on momentary political situations.
‘We must not play games with the constitution. The President has a mandate from the people to lead until 2029. That mandate must be respected and safeguarded together,’ he asserted.
The University of Indonesia political science alumnus also highlighted that the statement was delivered in a video showing former President Joko Widodo standing next to Budi Arie. He said his party did not wish to draw conclusions about Jokowi’s involvement, but the situation certainly raised questions among the public.
‘We are not accusing Mr Jokowi. But the public certainly wonders why this ’acceleration’ discourse emerged and was delivered in such a situation. Therefore, if it is indeed only Budi Arie’s personal opinion, Mr Jokowi should explain openly so that it does not become a loose ball,’ said Pipin.
Furthermore, Pipin stressed that PKS supports the administration of President Prabowo Subianto so that it can carry out the people’s mandate fully and successfully until 2029.
According to him, all elements of the nation should currently give President Prabowo room to work on resolving the nation’s various problems, improving public welfare, strengthening the national economy, and implementing government programmes that have become the people’s mandate.
‘The decision of the PKS Syuro Council Deliberation supports President Prabowo to successfully lead Indonesia until 2029. The government must be given the opportunity to work. It should not be disturbed by political discourse about accelerating power,’ said Pipin.
He added that this support does not mean PKS has lost its critical stance. The government must still be monitored so that policies run in accordance with the interests of the people and the constitution.
‘Supporting the government does not mean letting the government operate without control. We will remain critical and constructive and serve as a conduit for the aspirations of the people. But at the same time, we reject any discourse that has the potential to disrupt government stability and democracy,’ he explained.
Pipin reminded all political elites to be more responsible in making statements to the public. ‘The people need certainty, not provocation. The people want the government to work, the economy to grow, jobs to be created, and welfare to increase. Let us guard President Prabowo until 2029, not busy creating scenarios for a premature transfer of power,’ concluded Pipin.