Prabowo: I Know Who Funds the Protests

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that protests carried out by students and civil society are being financed by parties that dislike his administration. He also claimed to know the identity of the funders mobilising the masses.

“I know who is paying for the protests, I know that. But no, there are people paying for the protests. When asked, the protesters don’t understand. ‘What are we protesting for? We were paid 200,000 [rupiah]’,” said Prabowo during his speech at the XVII National Peak Week (Penas) of Farmers and Fishermen in Gorontalo on Wednesday (24/6).

He expressed regret over such actions, noting that his current administration is striving to provide the best for the people. He argued that such efforts should receive full support.

The Head of State likened the situation to a football match, where his administration is the team attempting to score goals against the opponent. The public and intellectuals, Prabowo added, should act as supporters cheering for their team.

“This nation should be united. Even if there are gaps or if our team is playing poorly, you should remain a supporter,” said Prabowo.

“Corrections should only come after the match is over. Do not shout insults while the game is still in progress. We are playing in the middle of the field, amongst our own teammates. It seems as though we are not proud of what our own nation produces,” he continued.

The Head of State also maintained a principle of speaking candidly to the public. He noted that blunt language is sometimes necessary so that the people understand the reality of the situation.

“Rather than speaking politely. Polite, yet still a thief. Polite, yet corrupt. Acting wealthy, acting like they have lots of money, even though that money was stolen from the people. I have been an Indonesian for a long time. I know all of that,” he concluded.