By Habeeb Ibrahim
Former Indonesian army general Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo was sworn in as the country’s new president on Sunday, taking over from Joko Widodo.
Prabowo was previously the 26th Minister of Defense under president Joko Widodo from 2019 to 2024.
Despite controversies surrounding his military past, particularly allegations of human rights abuses, Prabowo secured a decisive victory in the February election, riding on his appeal to younger voters and the support of his running mate, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the son of the outgoing president.
Prabowo’s inauguration marks a significant shift in Indonesia’s political landscape. Having twice lost to Jokowi in previous elections, his victory represents a comeback for the 73-year-old leader, whose campaign promises, including a $28 billion meal plan for school children, resonated with many Indonesians.
His rise is also notable for its strategic foreign policy implications, as he aims to bolster Indonesia’s presence on the global stage, particularly in its relations with China, Russia, and Australia.
Critics, however, have expressed concern over his past record in the military, particularly allegations of his involvement in the kidnapping of democracy activists during the final years of the Suharto regime.
While Prabowo has consistently denied these accusations, his history remains a point of contention among human rights advocates.
