Prabowo: Pramono and I Come from Competing Parties but Can Cooperate

President Prabowo Subianto has spoken regarding democracy in Indonesia, noting his different political background from the Governor of Jakarta, Pramono Anung, yet asserting that professional cooperation remains possible.

Prabowo made these remarks during the inauguration of the Jakarta LRT Kelapa Gading-Manggarai route at Manggarai LRT Station on Wednesday (16/09/2026). Prabowo initially referred to the Jabodetabek area as the largest metropolitan area in the world.

“We are witnessing an important step in the nation’s development plan, a national transformation, as Greater Jakarta, Jabodetabek, has essentially become the largest metropolis in the world with 42 million people,” said Prabowo.

Prabowo stated the need for awareness in prioritising the interests of the community when leading such a large city. He then cited himself and Pramono Anung as an example of how individuals from different parties can still work together.

“The best example of Indonesian statehood is that I, as the President of the Republic of Indonesia, lead the central government, while Mr Pramono Anung, as Governor of Jakarta, leads the Jakarta regional government. We come from different parties, we compete, but we can cooperate,” Prabowo remarked.

According to Prabowo, he and Pramono can respect one another and continue to collaborate because they are aware that their positions are a mandate from the people. He emphasised that public officials are servants of the community.

“We can respect each other because we are aware, in our hearts and souls, that we were chosen by the people,” said Prabowo.

“I am here as President, Mr Pramono Anung as Governor, and Mr Rano Karno as Vice Governor; we are servants of the people, we are the people’s officers,” he added.

Furthermore, Prabowo urged all officials who have received a mandate from the people to ensure that the public remains the priority of their policies. Prabowo warned officials who are no longer capable of upholding such a mandate to step down.

“If we are not strong, if we are unable, then we must be honourable and step aside. As long as we accept this mandate, as long as we accept the honour of serving the Indonesian people, we must work solely for the greater good, the interests of the nation, and the interests of the people,” concluded Prabowo.