Prabowo Opens Up About Thoughts of PDIP Critics Before Sleep: My Heart Feels Heavy

President Prabowo Subianto candidly spoke about his stance toward PDIP’s current position as the sole party deciding to remain outside the government cabinet. He admitted he often thinks about criticisms from PDIP politicians towards the government before going to sleep, and said those criticisms are often harsh and leave him feeling saddened.

“Sometimes at night before I sleep, my heart is heavy. These PDIP members’ criticisms can be very harsh,” Prabowo said in his speech at the 19th Plenary Session of the DPR, on Wednesday (20/5).

Nevertheless, he understood that the criticisms are not without basis. He said criticism can be painful, but that is what can save the democracy and the system of checks and balances.

The General Chair of the Gerindra Party said he would continue to respect PDIP’s stance to stay outside the government, even though he had initially preferred there to be no opposition in parliament.

“Because, according to him, a government without opposition may not be good for democracy. Every leader must be ready to be criticised and supervised.”

“And I respect and value that. Our democracy needs check and balance. I understand and appreciate PDIP’s sacrifice to stay outside the government,” he added.

Prabowo, addressing 451 DPR members present, along with party leaders and cabinet ministers, thanked PDIP for staying outside the government.

“Actually I want to say thank you to PDIP. You have served our democracy,” he said.