Prabowo Absent from Demokrat Iftar Due to Need for Rest; AHY Prays for a Speedy Recovery

Jakarta — Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), the leader of the Democratic Party, said President Prabowo Subianto did not attend the Demokrat Party’s iftar gathering held at the Fairmont Hotel in Jakarta on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, due to needing rest. The President’s absence was conveyed in a message read by the host during the event. The host stated that the President had sent his apologies for not being able to attend the engagement, explaining that it was not feasible at the moment and that he needed rest. ‘We would like to convey that there is a message from the President; he extends his apologies for not being able to attend the Democratic Party’s event, which had been scheduled for him, as it is not feasible at this time and he needs rest,’ the host said. ‘Mr. Foreign Minister (Sugiono), the video shown earlier and this event are also dedicated to the President Prabowo Subianto. This is a token of love and loyalty from the Demokrat family to be able to continue to safeguard and support him in leading the nation and guiding the Indonesian people toward a better future, more advanced and prosperous,’ AHY said in his remarks. AHY explained that Prabowo had previously expressed plans to attend the event but understood his condition after returning from a long overseas trip and having a tight schedule. ‘But we understand very well that last night he was exceptionally energetic until around half past eleven. And at that time, he had already indicated he would attend the Demokrat iftar; however, we fully understand that he has recently returned from a long international assignment with the Coordinating Minister and clearly needs time to recover,’ he said. ‘We pray that he recovers soon, remains healthy, and can continue to lead us all with full energy. Once again, best wishes and prayers from the Demokrat family to Mr. President Prabowo Subianto,’ he added. The iftar gathering was also attended by Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, the sixth President of Indonesia and Chairman of the Demokrat Supreme Council; Puan Maharani, Speaker of the House of Representatives; Foreign Minister Sugiono; and several ambassadors representing partner nations to Indonesia.