Prabowo Speaks Candidly About Parties That Do Not Want Indonesia to Rise

President Prabowo Subianto spoke candidly about the existence of parties opposing his government during a speech at the 17th National Farmers and Fishermen’s Week (Penas) in Gorontalo. Addressing the farmers and fishermen, Prabowo appeared unconcerned if anyone took issue with his remarks.

The event was held at the Limboto Sports Centre, Gorontalo, on Wednesday (24 June 2026). Prabowo stated that certain parties do not want Indonesia to rise, especially under his leadership. “We will rise to become a great nation. There are always those who do not want us to rise. They exist. We already know who they are. Right?” Prabowo said.

He continued, saying that when speaking to farmers and fishermen, one must be loud to be heard. He then mimicked a softer speaking style. “But with farmers and fishermen, you have to speak loudly. Right? If you speak softly, you won’t be heard. Is that true?” Prabowo remarked.

“Brothers and sisters, development must be carried out properly. Farmers and fishermen must work hard, must work hard and not ask for excessive profits. And we all hope that one day, in the future, the wealth enjoyed by a handful of people will slowly trickle down,” Prabowo said, mimicking a gentler tone while sneering at it. His actions immediately drew laughter from the audience.

Prabowo joked that his antics would become a talking point. However, he was untroubled by this, asserting that the people must know what is truly in his heart. “Eh, sorry, sorry. Try to delete that. Hey, friends, journalists, be united, okay? Try that sort of thing. I’ll get hammered again later. Do I care? These days, we speak plainly. You prefer to know what’s in my heart, right? Rather than polite talk. Polite but still thieving, polite but corrupt,” Prabowo continued.