Prabowo: I Lost Four Presidential Elections, Never Disturbed the Victorious Leader
President Prabowo Subianto spoke regarding national issues during the National Seminar of the Indonesian Science, Technology, and Industry Convention at the Jakarta International Convention Centre on Friday (26/06/2026). The event was attended by over 2,600 academics, ranging from university rectors to lecturers.
Prabowo stated that an advanced nation is supported by a united elite. He cited various ongoing global conflicts as examples of the consequences of instability.
“We see what is happening in Gaza, in Palestine, in Lebanon; 90% of Gaza is levelled. The consequences may be similar to Hiroshima or Nagasaki. Lebanon is like that now. Iran, the entire Gulf region, Yemen—we see it every day,” said Prabowo.
“The war in Afghanistan, the war in Pakistan, the war in Myanmar is intensifying… the war between the Thai and Cambodian people. Brothers and sisters, amidst all of this, the key factor is, among other things, elites who cannot cooperate,” he continued.
During the occasion, Prabowo also shared that he had lost four times in Presidential and Vice-Presidential election contests. However, despite being in a losing position, he emphasised that he never obstructed the leaders who won.
“As a political leader, I am chosen democratically. I have approached the people five times to ask for a mandate. Four times I was not given a mandate. I lost four times, but I do not obstruct the leaders who receive the mandate,” he said.
Prabowo explained that Indonesia has agreed to live under the sovereignty of the people in the form of a democracy. Therefore, even if current conditions do not align with the desires of a few parties, they should not create turmoil to achieve the welfare of the people.
“We may be dissatisfied. But what is the alternative? Do we want chaos? After every election there is noise, after every election there is noise, the losers make a fuss, the losers make a fuss. When will we move towards prosperity for our people? Is it not our duty as children of this nation, as leaders, as the smartest people in this country?” Prabowo stated passionately.
“Is it not true that all our intelligence must be dedicated to our poorest and weakest people? Is it not? Please, if anyone has a different opinion,” continued the Chairman of the Gerindra Party.