Resident political heavyweight Prabowo Subianto‘s idea to make the pro-government Onward Indonesia Coalition (KIM) a permanent coalition has ignited a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism as he contemplates a potential bid for reelection in 2029.
Plan Disclosed to Public by PKB Chair Muhaimin Iskandar
The proposal was revealed to the public by National Awakening Party (PKB) chair Muhaimin Iskandar. During a meeting with the chairs of the KIM’s constituent parties at the President’s private residence in Bogor, West Java, on Friday, Prabowo discussed his vision of a permanent coalition.
Initial Support and Skepticism Within Coalition
A day prior, Prabowo accepted his party’s recommendation to run for another term in the upcoming 2029 presidential election, only months into his first term. These developments provide early indications of the political landscape leading up to the next election.
However, establishing a permanent coalition will hinge on the continued loyalty of KIM parties. Since the Constitutional Court’s recent ruling, which abolished a stringent nomination threshold, these parties are now empowered to field their candidates.
Coalition members have offered varying opinions on Prabowo’s proposal. While some parties have publicly declared their support, others remain undecided, reserving judgment on Prabowo’s initiative.
PKB and Other Party Endorsements
The PKB was quick to back the President’s suggestion, with Muhaimin asserting that a permanent coalition would “strengthen and accelerate” national development.
Other KIM parties supporting the proposal include Golkar, the coalition’s largest member, as well as the National Mandate Party (PAN), the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), the Indonesia Solidarity Party (PSI), and the Democratic Party.
The Path Forward
The success of Prabowo’s permanent coalition proposal hinges on the willingness of each KIM party to extend their allegiance. Given the complex political dynamics in Indonesia, these negotiations will be crucial.
While initial reactions are mixed, the potential benefits of a stable, unified political front are considerable. For Prabowo, maintaining leadership of a robust coalition could be instrumental in securing a second term. For his opponents, understanding and preparing counter-strategies will be equally vital.
As the political climate evolves, the fate of the Onward Indonesia Coalition and Prabowo’s electoral ambitions will remain closely watched by political analysts and citizens alike.
To stay informed and engaged with the latest developments in Indonesian politics, subscribe to our newsletter or share this article on your preferred social media platforms. We welcome your comments and insights below.