On February 14th, more than 204 million Indonesians will have the opportunity to cast their votes for the next president of the country. Incumbent Joko Widodo is in his final term and cannot seek re-election. The three presidential candidates are Anies Baswedan, the former Governor of Jakarta, Ganjar Pranowo, the former Governor of Central Java, and Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto. Prabowo has a comfortable lead in the polls, but victory is not guaranteed. If no candidate secures at least 50 percent of the vote, a second round of voting will be held in June.
Prabowo, who has lost previous attempts at the presidency, faces allegations of human rights abuses during his military tenure, making him a polarizing figure. However, he believes that his policies are rational and logical, built on the work of his predecessors. He aims to work for the good of Indonesia as a whole, building relationships with all countries. He also emphasizes the importance of the youth vote, expressing a desire to improve the economic situation for the country and eradicate poverty.
As he heads into the election, Prabowo appeals to the younger generation to use their power to choose leaders who will fight for them. He promises to be a defender and fighter for the people. And despite his opponents raising concerns about his past, he believes that the majority of the Indonesian people support his message and vision for the country.