Prabowo Subianto became Indonesia’s eighth president, officially taking office on 20 October 2024, following his victory in the February 2024 elections, when he won approximately 58.6% of the vote. His inauguration marked the culmination of a political journey spanning decades of military service, political bids, controversies, and public reinvention.

Background: Prabowo Subianto, born 17 October 1951 in Jakarta, comes from a prominent Indonesian family. His father, Sumitro Djojohadikusumo, was an economist and minister under both presidents Sukarno and Suharto. Prabowo received his early education in Jakarta, London, and Malaysia before attending the Indonesian Military Academy. He rose through the ranks of the Indonesian Army, becoming a lieutenant general and commander of the Army’s Strategic Reserve Command. Prabowo was also married to Suharto’s daughter, Siti Hediati Hariyadi, from 1983 to 1998, further cementing his ties to Indonesia’s political elite.

Political Experience: Prabowo’s political career began in earnest after his military service. He founded the Great Indonesia Movement Party (Gerindra) in 2008 and ran for vice president in 2009. He then ran for president in 2014 and 2019, losing both times to Joko Widodo. In a surprising turn of events, Widodo appointed Prabowo as Defence Minister in 2019, a position he held until his successful presidential campaign in 2024. Throughout his political career, Prabowo has positioned himself as a strong nationalist leader, emphasising economic development, food security, and a more assertive foreign policy.

Past Controversies: Prabowo’s career has been marked by several controversies, particularly related to his military service. He was accused of human rights violations during Indonesia’s occupation of East Timor and in the final days of Suharto’s regime in 1998. Allegations include the kidnapping of pro-democracy activists and involvement in the violent suppression of protests. These accusations led to his discharge from the military in 1998 and a temporary ban from entering the United States. Prabowo has consistently denied these allegations, and his supporters argue that he has never been formally charged or convicted of any crimes.

Recent Challenges: Since taking office, Prabowo has undertaken a major cabinet reshuffle in September 2025, replacing key figures like the Finance Minister and Security Minister in response to nationwide protests over issues such as police behaviour, cost of living, and income inequality.  In parallel, the Constitutional Court is set to rule on legal challenges to new legislation passed in March 2025 that increases the military’s involvement in civilian affairs—a move some see as undermining democratic norms. 

Other Notable Aspects: Prabowo is known for his charismatic public speaking and his ability to connect with rural and working-class voters. He is also an accomplished equestrian, having represented Indonesia in international competitions. His family’s wealth and business connections have been both an asset and a point of criticism throughout his career. As a new president, Prabowo faces the challenge of uniting a diverse nation and delivering on his campaign promises of economic growth and social welfare. His presidency is likely to mark a shift in Indonesia’s domestic and foreign policies, potentially redefining the country’s role in Southeast Asia and on the global stage.

The Gaza Genocide: Indonesia has strongly condemned Israel’s conduct in Gaza, offering support to South Africa’s genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) by submitting a legal advisory opinion. 

As long as I’m President, never assume that the great and the rich can do whatever they want. We are not afraid of your greatness or wealth.”

300 languages spoken in Indonesia

82.9 million beneficiaries from The “Free Nutritious Meal” programme