Prabowo Subianto Takes Office as Indonesia's President with Record-Breaking Cabinet

Prabowo, under scrutiny for past human rights abuses, has formed the largest cabinet in decades and pledges to lead effectively and inclusively.

 

Former military general Prabowo Subianto has officially taken office as Indonesia's president, inaugurating a cabinet that is the largest the country has seen since the 1960s. The 73-year-old leader was sworn in as Indonesia's eighth president on Sunday, concluding the decade-long administration of his predecessor, Joko Widodo, fondly known as Jokowi, who steered the nation through significant economic growth and infrastructure advancements.

Emerging victorious with over 58% of the votes in February’s elections, Prabowo overcame previous presidential aspirations that ended in defeat. His inauguration speech was one of fervor, where he pledged to combat corruption and poverty while positioning himself as a president for all Indonesians: "We must always realize that a free nation is where the people are free," he proclaimed during his nearly hour-long address. He emphasized the need to alleviate fear, hunger, oppression, and suffering among the populace.

Joining Prabowo in the ceremony was his running mate Gibran Rakabuming Raka, who is also Jokowi's eldest son. Following his swearing-in, Prabowo unveiled a sizable cabinet composed of 48 ministers and 58 vice-ministers, a considerable increase from the 34 ministers and 30 vice-ministers formed under Jokowi. Notably, Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati has been reappointed, suggesting intentions for continuity in fiscal policy amid the challenges posed by global dynamics.

Prabowo recognized the significant hurdles Indonesia faces, stating, "Challenges, hurdles and threats that Indonesia is facing amid the global dynamics and turmoil are not light [matters]." His cabinet members will undergo a bonding retreat at a military academy in Central Java, which includes camping in tents to familiarize themselves with Prabowo's vision for governance. A three-day event aims to foster unity and understanding among the newly appointed officials as they prepare to tackle the nation's pressing issues.