Prabowo's East Java Guard Condemns Statement Deemed Insulting to President
The East Java Regional Coordinating Council (DKD) of Garda Prabowo has expressed condemnation of a statement made by a former activist of the Gadjah Mada University Student Executive Board. The organisation assessed that the statement contained elements that demean President Prabowo Subianto. This stance was conveyed amidst a democratic climate that upholds freedom of expression, yet still demands responsibility, ethics, and respect for state symbols.
Chairman of DKD Garda Prabowo East Java, Denny Hermanto, asserted that freedom of expression is a right guaranteed within Indonesia’s democratic system. Nevertheless, he argued, that freedom cannot be exercised without regard to prevailing norms, ethics, and legal provisions. He considered criticism of the government to be an important part of democracy, as long as it is delivered objectively and offers solutions.
‘The expression of opinions in the public sphere must prioritise ethics, morals, and responsibility. We condemn any form of insult against the President of the Republic of Indonesia, who was legitimately elected by the people through a democratic process. Differences of opinion are natural, but insults cannot be justified,’ Denny stated, as quoted from a written release on Tuesday (16/6).
He added that the President not only carries out governmental functions but also represents the state and the sovereignty of the people. Therefore, the public is expected to be able to distinguish between criticism of policy and actions deemed to degrade the dignity of state institutions.
According to Garda Prabowo East Java, education on political literacy and communication ethics in the public sphere needs to be continuously strengthened, especially in the current digital era. ‘A healthy democracy is not one filled with insults and vilification. A healthy democracy is one that presents ideas, arguments, and constructive criticism for the benefit of the people and the progress of Indonesia,’ Denny explained.
Furthermore, the organisation reminded that Indonesia’s national journey was built upon the spirit of unity, mutual cooperation, and deliberation. Amidst various challenges, ranging from economic development, improving the quality of education, food security, to global competition, all elements of society are expected to contribute through constructive thoughts and input.
Garda Prabowo East Java also invited the public, especially the younger generation, to play an active role in creating a public discussion space that is polite, educational, and oriented towards problem-solving. Differences in views and political choices are considered natural in a democracy, but national unity must remain the primary interest safeguarded together. The organisation called on all components of the nation to maintain a conducive atmosphere and place national interests above all differences.
‘East Java is a region that highly upholds the values of courtesy, brotherhood, and mutual cooperation. Let us safeguard a healthy democracy with constructive criticism, not with insults that can damage national unity. Indonesia needs unity, political maturity, and a spirit of nationalism from all elements of society,’ he concluded.