Indonesia's Amien Rais Urges Support for Prabowo's Full Term

Amien Rais, former chairman of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), has called for national political stability, urging all elements of society to support President Prabowo Subianto's administration throughout its term ending in October 2029. Rais, who also leads the Ummat Party's Syuro Council, stressed the importance of upholding the five-year power transition cycle as stipulated by the 1945 Constitution to avoid needless political upheaval.

Rais stated that a president should only be removed before their term concludes under extraordinary circumstances, such as severe criminal offenses like betraying state secrets for financial gain or involvement in fatal moral scandals. He believes that outside of such extreme situations, President Prabowo should be given a fair opportunity to realize his eight priority programs, known as Astra Cita. These programs encompass strengthening Pancasila democracy, fulfilling human rights, enhancing defense and security, creating jobs, and promoting gender equality.

Recalling Indonesia's past political instability between 1998 and 2004, which saw five presidents in a short period and drained national energy, Rais advocated for giving Prabowo a "fair chance" to work diligently towards his goals until 2029. He also highlighted the legal complexities of impeachment in Indonesia, noting the stringent multi-stage approval process involving the House of Representatives (DPR), Constitutional Court, and MPR. Given the current political landscape and parliamentary leadership, Rais considers the prospect of impeaching either President Prabowo or Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka to be highly improbable.