Former Military Commander Prabowo Subianto Emerges as Contender for Indonesia’s Next Leader, Despite Controversial Past
Former military commander Prabowo Subianto, who was dismissed from the military amid speculation of rights abuses and exiled in Jordan, is now in a strong position to become Indonesia’s next leader. Despite a controversial past, Subianto announced that he will contest the post in the upcoming February election, with the son of current President Joko Widodo as his running mate.
Subianto has undergone a remarkable transformation since being appointed as defense minister in 2019. Analysts say he has cultivated a more charismatic statesman persona rather than his previous fiery, pious nationalist image. He is accused of being involved in the kidnapping of student activists in 1998 and rights abuses in Papua and East Timor, although these allegations remain unproven, and Subianto vehemently denies any responsibility.
Recent opinion polls show that Subianto is leading with 34% support, putting him ahead of his opponents. In a two-way race against his closest competitor, former regional governor Ganjar Pranowo, Subianto has an 11-point lead. Part of the reason for his strong position is believed to be the endorsement of President Widodo, who cannot run for a third term and is backing his once bitter rival. Widodo’s son as a possible vice-president indicates his attempt to retain influence in the government.
Subianto’s appointment as defense minister gave him validation and visibility, erasing his de facto travel ban to the United States. He has focused on upgrading Indonesia’s military hardware and has signed defense deals with various countries. His Instagram profile showcases his day-to-day activities, including personal photos and artistic portraits, in an effort to connect with voters.
Subianto’s team is presenting him in a softer and more approachable way compared to previous campaigns. However, it remains to be seen if this approach will continue as the campaign progresses. Regardless, the younger generation of voters may not be familiar with the details of the accusations against Subianto, as they are not widely discussed in the Indonesian media.
With millions of young voters participating in the upcoming election, all candidates are vying for the millennial vote. Subianto’s rebranding efforts and the endorsement of President Widodo have put him in a strong position, but as the campaign intensifies, it remains to be seen how the public will respond to his controversial past.
