Prabowo: Indonesia Will Remain a Democracy

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed his commitment to democracy, promising to ensure that Indonesia remains a democratic nation.

“Allow me to state clearly: Indonesia is a democracy, and it will remain a democracy. I was elected by more than 90 million Indonesians in a free and fair election,” Prabowo stated in an interview with The Economist magazine, reported on Friday, 12 June 2026.

Prabowo explained that democracy remains the best system, even if it is not perfect. “I believe in democracy. I understand that democratic legitimacy is obtained through patience, the trust of the people, and respect for the will of the people,” he said.

On that occasion, he also emphasised that he is open to criticism, noting that in a democracy, criticism is not only healthy but essential. “I welcome criticism. I always make it a habit to carefully examine every criticism directed at the government I lead and weigh it based on facts and the realities faced by ordinary people,” said Prabowo.

However, Prabowo added that the implementation of democracy needs to be adapted to Indonesian culture. As a developing nation, Indonesia requires stability to move forward. In Indonesian culture, cooperation is prioritised over political fragmentation, and humility is valued over political hostility.

“We believe that democracy must produce stability and progress, not paralysis,” he said.

Prabow noted that for many years, Indonesia’s economy has grown at around 5 per cent. However, he argued that this is not enough, as Indonesia must pursue an economic growth rate of 8 per cent per year to become a developed nation.

“We will not get there by continuing to do the same things as before. In Indonesia’s condition, being satisfied with the status quo means stagnation. And that is not the path we have chosen,” he asserted.

Currently, Indonesia is undergoing transformations in various sectors. Consequently, the government is implementing various programmes such as Free Nutritious Meals (MBG), People’s Schools, industrial downstreaming, and the formation of Danantara.

“Indonesia’s journey is not perfect and will not be perfect. History teaches us that no great national transformation proceeds perfectly. However, we are determined that this country will no longer be defined by doubt, dependency, or performance that falls below its potential,” Prabowo emphasised.