Prabowo Says Authoritarianism May Be Necessary to Fight Corruptors

February 13, 2026 | 06:16 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto addressed groups of people who often call him an authoritarian leader, claiming this came from those who frequently complain about the government's performance.

Prabowo said authoritarianism is, at times, necessary. "If asked by the citizens, [i'd say] it may be necessary to be a little authoritarian to combat these corruptors," said Prabowo during a speech at the Indonesia Economy Outlook event at Wisma Danantara, Jakarta, on Friday, February 13, 2026.

The Gerindra Party Chair alluded to other countries he deemed still authoritarian. "Maybe it's effective," he said, jokingly, referring to arbitrary governance prevalent in authoritarianism.

Although he can be authoritarian, Prabowo said his government remains moderate and democratic. "I am completely democratic," he said.

But he would not compromise with outlaws, Prabowo said, thus law enforcement must be carried out properly.

However, Prabowo cautioned against the misuse of law against political opponents. "I don't want that, and I've proven that I dared to grant abolition and amnesty," he said.

He also urged the court of law to deliver justice; strict, and beyond reasonable doubt. "If there is a possibility that the defendant may be innocent, we must not deliver a final decision," he said.

Prabowo stated that as a president, he seeks legal certainty that can guarantee stability and tranquility for the people. According to him, this can be achieved if his government is fair and clean.

"I am determined with my team, we will build a clean and fair government," he said.

Read: Prabowo: Without Democracy, I Would Not Be President

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