Story perspectives

Indonesia's President Proposes Indirect Elections, Sparks Controversy

12/10/2025

Summary

Story summary

Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto proposed moving from direct regional elections to indirect elections, claiming it would reduce spending and curb vote buying.
The proposal emerged during a gathering of his coalition, and Subianto urged elites to consider indirect elections.
Analysts and activists warned the plan could undermine democratic accountability and reverse electoral reforms.
Subianto cited Suharto's era as a pragmatic precedent, arguing regional legislatures should elect governors and regents.

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Story summary

Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto proposed moving from direct regional elections to indirect elections, claiming it would reduce spending and curb vote buying.
The proposal emerged during a gathering of his coalition, and Subianto urged elites to consider indirect elections.
Analysts and activists warned the plan could undermine democratic accountability and reverse electoral reforms.
Subianto cited Suharto's era as a pragmatic precedent, arguing regional legislatures should elect governors and regents.