Ex-General with Controversial Past to Lead Indonesia
PrabowoEx-General Subiantowith electedControversial asPast to Lead Indonesia's president
The Facts
Subianto has promised to continue the popular policies of outgoing President Joko Widodo, including economic development plans and the $30 billion project to build a new capital city called Nusantara.
The president-elect has ties to both Widodo and Indonesia's dictatorial past, having served as a lieutenant general during the Suharto regime and later marrying Suharto's daughter.
The Spin
The election of Subianto raises serious concerns about the future of Indonesia's democracy. His ties to the Suharto dictatorship and unresolved human rights issues cast a shadow over his presidency. The lack of concrete plans beyond promising continuity leaves uncertainty about the country's economic and democratic trajectory.
