Jakarta (The Indonesian News) – President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto emphasized the importance of maintaining unity and friendship in practicing democracy, even when there are differences of opinion, competition, and criticism.
This was conveyed by Prabowo at the peak moment of the 25th Anniversary of the Democratic Party held at GBK Arena, Jakarta, on Wednesday (September 9).
Prabowo said that democracy provides space for every party to have different colors and views. Competition, criticism, suggestions, and recommendations are part of the democratic process that must be respected.
“This is Indonesian democracy. And today, on this stage, this is Indonesian democracy. Various colors. Competing, criticizing, offering suggestions, giving recommendations. Conveying things that may be unpleasant to say, but we remain harmonious, remain friendly, remain family,” Prabowo emphasized.
At the 25th Anniversary of the Democratic Party, Prabowo also assessed that mutual respect amid differences is important in Indonesia’s democratic life. According to him, differences of opinion should not eliminate harmony and friendship. “This is what we must hold on to,” he said.
Prabowo also touched on the political journey of the Democratic Party and himself, who have experienced both victory and defeat in political contests. Prabowo greatly appreciated the Democratic Party’s attitude in maintaining democracy when it was outside the government.
“The Democratic Party has won, has not won. Has been at the peak, has been in government. But when not in power, the Democratic Party did not hurl insults. The Democratic Party did not burn things down,” Prabowo said.
Prabowo then recounted his experience of several times not receiving the people’s mandate before finally winning the Presidential Election.
“When I lost four times, I accepted it. Well, we move forward again,” he said.
For Prabowo, this journey is part of the democratic process that must be accepted with an open heart. Prabowo emphasized that every party can continue to compete and convey criticism, while still maintaining unity as one nation.
On that occasion, Prabowo also expressed his appreciation for the Democratic Party’s support during the 2019 and 2024 Election eras. Prabowo said this support showed a shared vision and principles in building Indonesia.
“Because we indeed have the same aspirations and principles,” Prabowo said.
Prabowo emphasized that democracy must be a means to continue serving and devoting oneself to the people. Therefore, differences of opinion in democracy must remain placed within the spirit of unity and the nation’s interests.
“So, we actually appreciate that the military belongs to the people, and if we want to continue to serve and devote ourselves in the political field, we must carry out politics through democracy,” he said.
Source: Press Release of the Government Communication Agency (Bakom) of the Republic of Indonesia
