Transparency of Critics' Track Record Deemed Essential for Healthy Public Discourse

Criticism of the government is an inseparable part of democratic life. However, amidst the intense political dynamics, the public also has the right to obtain complete information regarding the track records of figures who voice criticism, so that every view can be assessed objectively and fairly. This view has emerged following various critiques directed at the administration of President Prabowo Subianto. In a democratic system, freedom of expression is guaranteed by the constitution and serves as one of the important mechanisms for overseeing the running of the government. According to political and legal observer Muslim Arbi, criticism of the government should not be disputed because it is the right of every citizen. However, he believes the public also has the right to know the background and track record of figures actively criticising the government. “Criticism of the Prabowo administration is commonplace in a democracy. However, the public needs to know the track record of the people criticising the Prabowo administration,” Muslim Arbi said in response to criticism directed at the government by opposition figure Syukur Mandar on Saturday (27/6/2026). He stated that someone who criticises the government should also introspect on their own journey and track record so that the criticism has a strong moral foundation. Muslim emphasised that he does not dispute the existence of criticism against the government. According to him, transparency regarding the track records of public figures is part of the public’s right to obtain complete information. “The public should not just receive a narrative of criticism without knowing the background of the person delivering it. The public has the right to assess objectively,” he said. He added that criticism still plays an important role as a control mechanism in a democratic country. However, he believes the quality of criticism will be more valuable if delivered by figures who possess integrity, consistency, and a good track record. Therefore, Muslim hopes the public will not only focus on the content of the criticism but also consider the credibility of the person delivering it. In this way, the space for public discussion can develop healthily, in a balanced manner, and continue to uphold democratic principles.