Prabowo Affirms Government Not Anti-Criticism, but Warns Against Slander and Abuse

President Prabowo Subianto has asserted that the government is not anti-criticism, viewing it as an essential component of democratic life. However, he cautioned that criticism should not devolve into slander or abuse, which he believes damages the spirit of nation-building. “We are a democratic country. We are not anti-criticism. Criticism saves us. But there is a difference between criticism and abuse, between criticism and slander,” he stated during his speech at the 28th anniversary of the National Awakening Party (PKB) at the Jakarta Convention Centre (JCC) in Senayan, Jakarta, on Thursday, 23 July 2026.

According to the President, the government understands that the function of criticism is to correct the course of governance. Therefore, objective and constructive criticism is necessary within a democratic system. He emphasised that the government would not be shaken by criticism or attacks as long as it continues to work on the right path and prioritises the people’s interests. “But there is no problem. If we are right, if we are on the right path, we will remain strong,” he said.

Prabowo also addressed what he described as narratives attempting to weaken public confidence in Indonesia’s condition. “We understand there is a major campaign to make us waver. Indonesia is said to be on the verge of collapse,” he noted. On the occasion, he invited all elements of the nation to maintain optimism and support the various national development efforts. The Head of State likened the government to a team competing on the field, requiring the backing of the Indonesian people to achieve the best results. “If we love a football team, when they are playing on the pitch, we as supporters cheer, ‘Come on, go forward.’ But do not lower their morale; they are competing out there. You might cause them to lose,” he said.

Prabowo stressed that differences of opinion are normal in a democracy. However, he expressed hope that all parties would prioritise national interests by maintaining a spirit of unity, without spreading false information or slander that could divide society. He called on the entire community to continue working together and standing united in facing various development challenges to realise a more advanced Indonesia.