Prabowo Affirms Indonesia is a Democratic Nation: If There is a Bad Government, Replace it Peacefully

President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, has affirmed that Indonesia adheres to a democratic system of government. This means that the sovereignty of the state lies in the hands of the people.

Prabowo made this statement during a briefing at the Government Working Meeting (Raker) at the Presidential Palace Complex in Central Jakarta on Wednesday, 8 April 2026.

Prabowo also addressed the public, noting that those dissatisfied with the government can replace it, provided it is done through the applicable mechanisms.

“We have chosen to govern democratically. Democracy means sovereignty in the hands of the people. There is no problem,” said Prabowo.

“If there is a government deemed not good, then replace that government; there are mechanisms for it. Do it well, peacefully,” he continued.

He explained that the replacement of government can be carried out through mechanisms such as general elections or impeachment. He viewed this as unproblematic.

“It can be through general elections, no problem. It can also be through impeachment, no problem. But impeachment through the proper channels. There are channels for it. DPR, MK, MPR—do it, no problem,” he clarified.

The Head of State then provided examples from Indonesian history regarding government changes.

“In our history, several transitions have occurred. Bung Karno stepped down peacefully. Pak Harto stepped down peacefully. Gus Dur stepped down peacefully. Through processes. Not through violence,” he stressed.

Prabowo stated that the system of governance has been well regulated by the nation’s founders.

“Have faith in our own strength. Have faith in Indonesia,” he added.