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Commentary: The onset of ‘de-Jokowi-sation' in Indonesian politics?
Commentary: The onset of ‘de-Jokowi-sation' in Indonesian politics?

CNA

time23-06-2025

  • Politics
  • CNA

Commentary: The onset of ‘de-Jokowi-sation' in Indonesian politics?

SINGAPORE: After nearly a month of mounting controversy, a group calling itself the Forum of Retired TNI Soldiers (FPP) has submitted a letter to Indonesia's Parliament and People's Consultative Assembly, urging the initiation of impeachment proceedings against Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. President Prabowo Subianto has signalled his readiness to listen to the concerns of the retired generals, but there are deeper undercurrents. In recent months, Prabowo has consolidated his power by sidelining former President Joko Widodo and inching closer to his predecessor's political rivals. The call for Gibran's impeachment stems from concerns over his eligibility to serve as the nation's second-highest elected leader and alleged procedural flaws in the Constitutional Court ruling that allowed him to run. The forum comprises 332 retired military personnel and initially issued a petition expressing concern over the current state of the nation. Although Prabowo and the political elite in Jakarta do not appear to be taking the FPP movement seriously, they have not ruled out the possibility of impeaching the vice president. Prabowo has pledged to listen to the concerns of the retired generals and expressed his willingness to engage in dialogue. Jokowi, Gibran's father, has dismissed the idea of impeachment, arguing that it would be impossible since the Indonesian people elected Gibran and Prabowo on a joint ticket. MOVING AWAY FROM JOKOWI The FPP's push to impeach Gibran appears to be part of a broader effort to reduce Jokowi's lingering influence. Early in his presidency, Prabowo seemed to allow Jokowi significant influence over government affairs. Without much fanfare that would attract controversy, however, Prabowo has gradually begun to roll back many of Jokowi's signature initiatives — most notably, large-scale infrastructure projects like the new capital city, Nusantara. In their place, Prabowo is introducing his own flagship programmes, such as the sovereign wealth fund Danantara, free nutritious meals for students, food estates in Papua and other regions, the Red and White Village Cooperatives, and 'People's Schools'. Eight months into his term, Prabowo is showing an approach that is distinct from Jokowi's. The latter sought to introduce laws that strengthened the government's control of the bureaucracy of local governments. Prabowo has gone a step further by showing a stronger preference for a command economy and state capitalism — an outlook he articulated in his two books, Kepemimpinan Militer (Military Leadership) and Paradoks Indonesia (Indonesian Paradox). Like Jokowi, Prabowo brought most of Indonesia's major political parties into his coalition. But in Prabowo's case, he did so arguably not to empower them but to neutralise opposition and consolidate control. Unlike Jokowi, Prabowo has been quietly building up a powerful institution, the military. Through a steady consolidation of power, Prabowo has made significant strides in what appears to be a deliberate process of de-Jokowi-sation. This effort has also triggered a broader realignment among the political elite, with many of Jokowi's key allies gradually sidelined and replaced by figures loyal to Prabowo. At the same time, Prabowo has begun to draw closer to Megawati Soekarnoputri, chair of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) and Jokowi's chief political rival. While this rapprochement has not yet materialised into a formal alliance, Prabowo's overtures to Megawati clearly signal his intent to step out of Jokowi's shadow. Jokowi has also found himself mired in a trivial yet persistent controversy: There have been questions raised about the authenticity of his degree from the Gadjah Mada University. Realising the damage to his image and political dynasty, Jokowi eventually took legal action. The de-Jokowi-sation process has also involved the systematic weakening of figures once central to Jokowi's inner circle. One example is Budi Arie Setiadi, the Minister of Cooperatives and leader of the Pro-Jokowi volunteer network. He is now embroiled in a scandal after being accused of facilitating online gambling during his previous role as Minister of Communication and Information. Similarly, Erick Thohir, the Minister of State-Owned Enterprises and once a powerful figure under Jokowi, has been increasingly sidelined since the establishment of Danantara. Once seen as a potential future presidential contender, Thohir now appears to be excluded from making major policy decisions, signalling a sharp decline in his political influence. A similar fate has fallen on Bahlil Lahadalia, the Minister of Investment and Head of the Investment Coordinating Board. Prabowo appears intent on curbing Bahlil's influence, particularly following his failure in the distribution of 3kg LPG gas canisters. Bahlil is also entangled in a nickel-mining scandal on Gag Island, near the Raja Ampat conservation area in Papua. However, sidelining Bahlil has proven more complicated than with other figures. Unlike Thohir, who lacks a formal political base, Bahlil chairs the Golkar Party — the second-largest party in Parliament after PDI-P. Jokowi played a huge part in his ascent to the party leadership, via the ousting of former chairman Airlangga Hartarto through a corruption case. CONSOLIDATING POWER Prabowo has effectively consolidated his power, in part by weakening key state institutions. Given that Jokowi has retained some influence over the police and the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), Prabowo has approached both with caution. The president is aware of the police's significant power and its historical rivalry with the military. The KPK, widely viewed as operating within the police's orbit, has also been left largely untouched. Instead, Prabowo has moved to strengthen the Attorney General's Office and the judiciary. He ordered the TNI Commander to provide security for prosecutors and their offices, despite these agencies already having their own internal security forces. He has pledged to raise judges' salaries, signalling his intent to shift the institutional balance of power. The de-Jokowi-sation process has unfolded quietly, without triggering political upheaval or disturbing overall stability. Prabowo has allowed Jokowi's critics to erode his predecessor's influence, a strategy that ultimately benefits his own administration. Jokowi's influence within the government has been effectively neutralised. Gibran, while unlikely to be impeached, is likely to remain a political lame duck. Increasingly, Jokowi realises the crucial importance of having a political vehicle for his survival. This likely explains his recent move to float the idea of taking over the leadership of the Indonesian Solidarity Party by replacing his youngest son, Kaesang Pangarep. But it may be too late.

Sohar International partners with Arabian Falcon Insurance Company to introduce exclusive Insurance protection plans
Sohar International partners with Arabian Falcon Insurance Company to introduce exclusive Insurance protection plans

Zawya

time17-03-2025

  • Business
  • Zawya

Sohar International partners with Arabian Falcon Insurance Company to introduce exclusive Insurance protection plans

Muscat: Reinforcing its commitment to delivering customer-centric financial solutions, Sohar International, Oman's best bank, has partnered with Arabian Falcon Insurance Company to introduce a suite of exclusive insurance products. Designed to provide both financial security and peace of mind, the newly launched Family Protection Plan and Life Protect offer comprehensive coverage at competitive rates, ensuring long-term financial well-being for customers. This strategic collaboration reflects Sohar International's commitment to going beyond traditional banking by integrating value-driven financial protection solutions. The partnership aims to empower individuals and families with accessible, innovative, and inclusive insurance offerings that cater to their evolving needs. Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Abdul Qader Al Sumali, Chief Retail and Premier Banking Officer, at Sohar International, stated, 'At Sohar International, we believe that financial well-being extends beyond wealth management—it is about creating a robust safety net that enables individuals to plan for the future with confidence. Through this strategic alliance with Arabian Falcon Insurance Company, we are redefining the role of banks in delivering integrated financial protection. These exclusive insurance solutions ensure that our customers have seamless access to comprehensive coverage without the complexities traditionally associated with insurance products. This partnership underscores our dedication to continuous innovation, providing meaningful solutions that support both individual aspirations and broader economic stability.' The newly introduced Family Protection Plan (FPP) and Life Protect offer several key benefits, ensuring flexibility and affordability for individuals aged 18 to 64, with a maximum coverage age of 65. Coverage options range from OMR 10,000 to OMR 50,000, allowing customers to tailor their plans based on their financial protection needs. Customers wishing to benefit from these plans can visit the bank's branches or contact the bank's call center. Mr. Roland Zaatar, Chief Executive Officer of Arabian Falcon Insurance Company, commented, 'Sohar International has consistently demonstrated a forward-thinking approach by integrating innovative financial solutions that add tangible value to its customers. We are pleased to partner with a bank that prioritizes financial security and shares our commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. With these exclusive protection plans, we aim to simplify access to essential insurance services while upholding the highest standards of coverage, service, and affordability.' The Family Protection Plan (FPP), available in two variants—FPP Platinum and FPP Gold—provides a comprehensive financial safety net. Key benefits include a lump sum payout in the event of death from any cause, financial support in cases of total disability, and an immediate payout upon diagnosis of a covered critical illness. Additionally, the plan extends specialized coverage for hospitalization, female-specific cancer diagnoses for spouses, and protection for domestic helpers. With monthly premium options, the FPP ensures tailored and extensive protection for diverse needs. Meanwhile, the Life Protect Plan is designed for simplicity and affordability, offering fundamental financial security by providing a lump sum payout to beneficiaries in the event of death, total, or partial disability. Understanding the financial strain caused by unforeseen circumstances, this plan helps safeguard family stability while ensuring accessible and essential coverage at affordable monthly premiums. As part of its commitment to holistic financial solutions, Sohar International continuously identifies opportunities to address the diverse needs of the community. By fostering responsible financial planning, the bank ensures that individuals and families have the necessary protection to thrive in an ever-evolving economic landscape. Through strategic investments in innovative solutions, Sohar International remains at the forefront of industry trends, reinforcing its role as a leading financial institution dedicated to driving economic growth and adaptability. About Sohar International With the vision to become a world-class Omani services company that helps customers, community and people to prosper and grow, Sohar International operates with a purpose to help people 'win' by delivering responsive banking for their ever-changing world, complementing their growth and prosperity with international standard service delivery. The Bank seeks to redefine banking in Oman through transformational developments centred on the principles of More Velocity, making everything simple and fast; More Value, ensuring relevance and connectivity to customers' world; and More Vision, liberating stakeholders through talented leadership.

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