Andreas Hugo Pareira, a senior official of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), has responded to President Prabowo Subianto’s recent praise regarding the party’s critical stance toward his administration. The President expressed his appreciation during his address on the Macroeconomic Framework (KEM) and Fiscal Policy Principles (PPKF) at the DPR Plenary Session on Wednesday (May 20).
Addressing the media at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, Andreas emphasized that PDIP’s decision to remain outside the ruling coalition is a deliberate choice. He explained that this position allows the party to function effectively as a check and balance, providing constructive criticism and alternative perspectives to improve national policy.
“We thank the President for his acknowledgment. It is appropriate for PDIP to remain outside the government to perform our role as an opposition party, offering positive critiques,” Andreas stated. He clarified that the party’s objective is to provide a “second opinion” that helps the government navigate complex issues and refine its decision-making processes.
Andreas noted that President Prabowo appears to recognize the value of this feedback. According to Andreas, the President understands that the administration benefits from the scrutiny provided by PDIP. “It is not just about emotions; it is about looking at things rationally. Our criticisms are intended for the common good, and that is what we have consistently done,” he added.
During his address at the DPR Plenary Session regarding the 2027 State Budget (RAPBN), President Prabowo explicitly appreciated PDIP’s commitment to its oversight role. The President admitted that he frequently receives sharp criticisms from PDIP faction members, which serve as a necessary tool for self-reflection.
“Every leader must be willing to be criticized and supervised. Sometimes, before I sleep, I feel pained because the criticisms from PDIP members are very harsh, but I realize that there is often a valid basis for them,” Prabowo remarked.
The President further highlighted that criticism should not be viewed as inherently negative. Instead, he framed it as a vital form of guidance that keeps the government on the right track. “There is a saying that we may not like those who warn us, but they are actually the ones saving us,” he concluded.
Summary
PDIP senior official Andreas Hugo Pareira expressed gratitude following President Prabowo Subianto’s public acknowledgment of the party’s critical stance. By choosing to remain outside the ruling coalition, PDIP intends to function as an effective check and balance, offering constructive feedback and alternative perspectives on national policy. The party views its role as providing a rational “second opinion” to help the administration refine its decision-making processes for the public good.
President Prabowo welcomed this oversight, admitting that while the sharp criticisms from PDIP members can be difficult to hear, they serve as a valuable tool for self-reflection. He emphasized that leaders must be willing to accept scrutiny, noting that such feedback acts as vital guidance to keep the government on the right track. Ultimately, both sides recognize that rigorous oversight is essential for responsible governance and national progress.