Prabowo: Democracy remains the best system despite frequent challenges
Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto stated that the democratic process is often marked by various challenges and dynamics, yet the system remains the best choice for realising justice, hope, and inclusive governance.
Prabowo made these remarks during a welcoming speech at a dinner held with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jakarta on Tuesday (7/7).
“Democracy is the best system compared to all systems ever attempted by human civilisation,” Prabowo said, according to a statement received on Wednesday.
Prabowo acknowledged that in practice, democracy carries various risks. He noted that there are always challenges, pitfalls, and parties attempting to hijack the democratic process for specific interests.
Therefore, Prabowo called upon all elements of the nation to maintain trust in democracy to ensure the process operates according to correct principles.
“We must not give up. We must continue to believe in democracy and persist in our efforts to protect it,” he asserted.
On that occasion, Prabowo also expressed his pleasure in meeting a young member of the General Elections Commission (KPU).
The Head of State assessed that the experience and lessons learned from election organisers, both in Indonesia and abroad, are vital components in strengthening the quality of democracy.
“That is why I am very happy to meet a young member of the General Elections Commission today. We also learn very closely from the Election Commission of India,” he said.
Prior to the dinner, President Prabowo accompanied PM Narendra Modi on a state visit to the DPR RI Building, Parliament Complex, Senustaya, Jakarta.
The arrival of both leaders was welcomed by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Speaker of the House Puan Maharani, Speaker of the MPR Ahmad Muzani, as well as Deputy Speakers Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal and Sari Yuliati.
PM Modi delivered a speech before President Prabowo, Speaker Puan Maharani, and the invited guests.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Indonesia is part of the efforts of both nations to further tighten diplomatic relations while strengthening strategic cooperation across various sectors, ranging from economy, trade, and investment to defence and culture.
PM Narendra Modi is conducting a state visit to Indonesia from 6–8 July 2026 as a return visit following President Prabowo Subianto’s previous visit to India.
After completing his agenda in Jakarta, PM Modi is scheduled to continue his journey to Yogyakarta.
Alongside President Prabowo, he will visit Prambanan Temple to review and inaugurate a cooperation agreement on cultural heritage preservation and a temple restoration programme, which serves as a symbol of the strengthening cultural cooperation between the two nations.