Prabowo Praises PDI-P for Sacrificing Position Outside Government: A Service to Democracy

President Prabowo Subianto has praised the PDI-P for its sacrifice in choosing to remain outside the government. “I understand and I comprehend that PDI-P has sacrificed to be outside the government. I understand that,” said Prabowo during the DPR Plenary Session at the Parliament Complex, Jakarta, on Wednesday (20/05/2026).

He expressed his appreciation and respect for PDI-P for performing the role of checks and balances from outside the administration. Prabowo also extended his gratitude, stating that PDI-P has rendered a service to democracy in Indonesia.

While the Head of State admitted his desire to have all political parties join his coalition, he emphasised that criticism and oversight remain essential. “Indeed, my wish is for ‘gotong-royong’ (mutual cooperation). If all parties were in the government, it would be much sweeter for me. But perhaps that would not be good. Every leader must be willing to be criticised. Every executive must be supervised,” said Prabowo.

“Sometimes, late at night before I sleep, my heart feels heavy. These members of PDI-P, sometimes their criticism is very harsh. But I realise that, in the end, there is likely a basis for it,” he added.