Prabowo Subianto finally clinched victory in his fourth presidential election attempt, a testament to his perseverance and refined political strategy. Each previous election provided him with invaluable experience, allowing him to grasp the complexities of Indonesian politics better. His success is not merely a product of hard work and financial resources but also a meticulous approach to alliances and understanding his and his opponents’ weaknesses.
A pivotal factor in Prabowo’s victory was his alliance with incumbent President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), who had long positioned himself as a kingmaker. Jokowi’s political endorsement significantly bolstered Prabowo’s public image and granted him access to a broader political network and resources. With Jokowi’s support, Prabowo consolidated his political strength, garnering backing from various factions, including previously opposing political parties.
Jokowi also played a crucial role in leveraging his relationships with bureaucrats and relevant institutions like the General Elections Commission (KPU) and the Constitutional Court (MK). As the incumbent president, Jokowi’s influence within the bureaucratic supra structure was instrumental in managing an effective campaign and mitigating administrative hurdles. Through Jokowi’s inclusive and collaborative approach, Prabowo secured support from essential government elements, ensuring a smoother electoral process.
Prabowo’s ability to overcome previous shortcomings was also instrumental in his success. He learned from past defeats, refining his campaign strategies and strengthening his political message. By identifying and addressing these weaknesses, Prabowo presented a more compelling vision for Indonesia’s future, resonating well with voters.
Additionally, the political landscape that enabled Jokowi to position his son as a vice-presidential candidate (cawapres) despite lacking substantial political experience reflects the power dynamics at play. Although Jokowi’s son might not have had the necessary political credentials, Jokowi’s influence and the existing power structures ensured the candidacy’s acceptance. This situation underscores the significant role of personal influence and power networks in Indonesian politics, where those with access to such networks can significantly impact electoral outcomes.
However, Prabowo’s victory is not without controversy. There are allegations that the 2024 presidential election was neither free nor fair, largely due to Jokowi’s interference as President. Critics argue that Jokowi’s active involvement, or “cawe-cawe,” raised questions about the election’s integrity. This notion casts a shadow over Prabowo’s triumph, suggesting that it may be seen as an artifact of political manipulation rather than a straightforward victory.
Prabowo deftly navigated these factors. He not only forged strong alliances but also managed relationships with various institutions and the political supra structure effectively. This demonstrates that winning a presidential election in Indonesia involves more than financial capital; it requires the skill to build and utilize a complex web of power networks.
Ultimately, Prabowo’s success is not attributable to a single factor but to a combination of sophisticated political strategy, support from a kingmaker like Jokowi, and the ability to manage and leverage existing power structures. This reflects the reality of Indonesian politics, where personal relationships and power networks play a crucial role in determining the winner in a highly competitive political arena. Despite the allegations and controversies, Prabowo’s win remains a significant moment in Indonesia’s political history.
