JAKARTA, Indonesia - Prabowo Subianto, a wealthy former general with close ties to both Indonesia's outgoing president and its dictatorial past, appears poised to become the country's next leader. Although he has promised to continue the popular policies of his predecessor, concerns have been raised about his human rights record and its implications for Indonesia's democracy.
During his campaign, Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto positioned himself as the heir to President Joko Widodo, pledging to carry forward the modernization agenda that has fueled rapid economic growth and elevated Indonesia to the ranks of middle-income nations. In a televised speech from a sports stadium on the night of the election, Subianto emphasized the need for humility and unity, stating, 'This victory must be a victory for all Indonesian people.'
