Behind Prabowo's Persistent Presidential Bid: 'Indonesia Off Course Since '90s'

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's persistent pursuit of the presidency, a journey marked by several electoral defeats before his 2024 victory, stems from a deep-seated belief that Indonesia has been heading in the wrong direction since the 1990s. He articulated this long-held conviction during a speech at the 18th Hipmi National Conference in Bandar Lampung.

"I want to become a president because I have seen since the 90s that Indonesia has been heading in the wrong direction. I have seen it," Prabowo stated, addressing the audience. He acknowledged that many observers have questioned his enduring ambition, often remarking, "Prabowo really wants to become president."

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'Prabowo really wants to become president,' as I've heard analysts and podcasters said

Prabowo recounted his past electoral attempts: a presidential bid in 2004, an attempt to become vice president in 2009, and consecutive presidential campaigns in 2014 and 2019. He suggested these repeated efforts were not in vain, as they were fueled by his assessment of the nation's trajectory.

During the 1990s, Prabowo served in the Indonesian military, being discharged in 1998 amidst significant national events including the Asian monetary crisis and the fall of President Soeharto. The conference itself, held on June 10-11, 2026, focused on "The Synergy of Young Entrepreneurs Building National Economic Strength" and included elections for the Hipmi Chair for the 2026-2029 period.

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I want to become a president because I have seen since the 90s that Indonesia has been heading in the wrong direction. I have seen it