Prabowo admits to being disheartened by harsh criticism; PDI-P: We are carrying out the party's function

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has responded to President Prabowo Subianto’s statement of thanks for the harsh criticisms from the bullheaded party toward his administration. PDI-P Executive Council member Andreas Hugo Pareira said the criticisms the party has voiced thus far are part of the political function of a party that sits outside the government. ‘Yes, thank you, Mr President for the praise, and indeed PDI-P should be outside, and we have all this time also been carrying out the function as a political party outside the government and giving positive criticisms,’ said Andreas when met at the DPR Building, Senayan, Jakarta, on Wednesday (20/5/2026). ‘In other words, to provide second-opinion views to the government to improve the situation,’ he added. Andreas also responded to Prabowo’s remark that he was ‘pilu’ to receive harsh criticisms from PDI-P cadres. He said the President understood that the criticisms voiced by his party have a good purpose for the government’s operation. ‘Yes but he also said that there are many things he also needs from the views of PDI Perjuangan,’ he said. ‘That the criticisms are certainly well-intended and that is what we have been doing,’ he added. According to him, criticism of the government must continue to be made grounded in the constitution, the Pancasila ideology, and the people’s interests. ‘What Mr Prabowo said earlier is actually the marwah of PDI Perjuangan — another way of saying the party is critical within the context of checks and balances, yet still defending the government, but in the proper manner,’ said Aria. ‘Correct according to the constitution, correct according to the ideology, and correct for the people’s interests,’ he added. Aria said that the existence of political parties outside the government is important to safeguard oversight of power. He noted that parliament requires a robust critical force that remains active so that the government’s course can be safeguarded.