Prabowo: We respect criticism, but it must not damage democracy

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto has asserted that criticism is an essential component of democratic life in Indonesia, but it must not be misused for specific interests that have the potential to damage national unity.

According to a statement from the Indonesian Government Communication Agency (Bakom) received in Jakarta on Wednesday, President Prabowo Subianto stated that the development of democracy must continue to be strengthened by upholding responsible freedom of speech. He noted that criticism plays a vital role as both a reminder and a means of evaluation for the government to continuously improve various policies.

“We continue to build our democratic life. We respect criticism. Criticism is important. We need criticism to remind us. We need criticism to improve ourselves,” said President Prabowo while delivering a mandate before thousands of National Police (Polri) members during the 80th Bhayangkara Day commemoration at the Brimob Police Training Unit, Cikeas, Bogor Regency, on Wednesday.

“But we must also safeguard the security of democracy. Let democracy not be hijacked by those with vast wealth. Let our democracy not be destroyed by foreign interests,” he added.

He emphasised that differences of opinion must not evolve into hatred or division within society.

“We are all children of the Indonesian nation. Our democracy must stand upon the values of the Indonesian people. Differences should not become a source of division. We must always prioritise unity and harmony among us,” he said.

The National Police are expected to play their role in ensuring that the public can convey their aspirations peacefully, while still maintaining security and public order.

At the same time, the President also requested that the law be enforced and order be maintained. Law enforcement is necessary as it is intended to protect the people and provide a sense of security to the community.