Minister Pigai Warns Colleague Against Political Acceleration Talk

Indonesia's Human Rights Minister, Natalius Pigai, has issued a stern warning to Budi Arie Setiadi, Chairman of Projo and a figure associated with former President Joko Widodo's political faction. Pigai cautioned Setiadi against advocating for political acceleration before the 2029 elections, suggesting such actions could lead to his political isolation.

“

Remember, Mas Budi Arie. Remember me.

"Remember, Mas Budi Arie. Remember me," Pigai stated on his official X account, accompanying his remarks with a video of Setiadi seated beside President Joko Widodo. Pigai alluded to a past event, a minister's child's wedding, where he claimed Setiadi was ostracized by other ministers in President Prabowo Subianto's cabinet. Pigai highlighted that he was the one who chose to sit beside Setiadi, emphasizing his humanitarian stance.

“

During the event where we sat together at a minister's child's wedding, all the ministers distanced themselves from you. I, Natalius, decided to sit beside you.

Both Pigai and Setiadi are serving ministers in President Prabowo Subianto's cabinet, appointed in October 2024. Setiadi holds the portfolio for Cooperatives, while Pigai is the Human Rights Minister. However, reports indicate Setiadi was dismissed from his ministerial post in September 2025, while Pigai has retained his position.

“

I felt your sorrowful feelings.

Pigai expressed sympathy for Setiadi's perceived isolation, stating, "I felt your sorrowful feelings." He reiterated his commitment to humanity over political affiliations, asserting, "I am a defender of humanity. I dare to sit beside you." Pigai urged Setiadi to fully recall the wedding incident as a reminder of his political standing.

“

I am a defender of humanity. I dare to sit beside you.