President Prabowo Praises PAN as Loyal 'Comrade in Arms'

President Prabowo Subianto praised the National Mandate Party (PAN) as a 'comrade in arms' during the party's 28th anniversary celebration held at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) on Friday, September 18, 2026. The president highlighted that friendship takes various forms, emphasizing the value of true companions who stand by one's side during difficult times. He expressed gratitude to PAN for remaining a loyal 'comrade in arms' alongside him in the 2014, 2019, and 2024 presidential elections. "Indeed, we meet and become friends because of values, indeed because of the values of struggle," Prabowo stated, underscoring that shared goals and principles form the foundation of relationships. Prabowo also noted his long-standing connections with many PAN cadres. He mentioned that before joining the Gerindra Party, he was affiliated with the Golkar Party, but his friends from PAN have been with him since long ago. This address signifies the importance of inter-party relations in Indonesian politics, particularly alliances during critical electoral moments like presidential elections. PAN, alongside President Prabowo's Gerindra Party, is a key component of the ruling coalition, and his remarks on loyalty likely aim to reinforce the stability of his administration.