Prabowo: Indonesia Will Remain a Democracy

President Prabowo Subianto has affirmed his commitment to democracy, pledging to ensure Indonesia remains a democratic state. ‘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 said in a statement to The Economist magazine, cited on Friday, 12 June 2026. Prabowo explained that democracy remains the best system despite its imperfections. ‘I believe in democracy. I understand that democratic legitimacy is gained through patience, the people’s trust, and respect for the people’s will,’ he said. He also stressed that he is open to criticism, as in a democracy, criticism is not only healthy but essential. ‘I welcome criticism. I have always accustomed myself to carefully examining every criticism directed at the government I lead and weighing it against the facts and the realities faced by ordinary people,’ Prabowo said. However, Prabowo added that the implementation of democracy needs to be adapted to Indonesia’s culture. As a developing country, Indonesia requires stability to move forward. In Indonesian culture, cooperation is prioritised over political fragmentation, and humility is valued more than political hostility. ‘We believe democracy must produce stability and progress, not paralysis,’ he stated. Prabowo noted that for years, Indonesia’s economy has grown at around 5 percent, but that is not enough; the country must pursue 8 percent annual economic growth to become a developed nation. ‘We will not get there by continuing to do the same things as before. Under Indonesia’s conditions, being satisfied with the status quo means stagnation. And that is not the path we have chosen,’ he asserted. Indonesia is currently undergoing transformation in various fields, with the government implementing programmes such as Free Nutritious Meals (MBG), Sekolah Rakyat, industrial downstreaming, and the establishment of Danantara. ‘Indonesia’s journey is not perfect and will not be perfect. History teaches that no great national transformation runs perfectly. But we are determined that this country will no longer be defined by doubt, dependency, or underperformance,’ Prabowo concluded.