AHY Clarifies Remarks on Presidential Term, Prabowo Defends Democratic Discourse

Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), Chairman of the Democratic Party and Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure, has clarified his recent political speech, which touched upon presidential terms and potentially led to misinterpretations. Speaking at the 25th anniversary of the Democratic Party in Jakarta on Wednesday night (9/9), AHY stated, "On this good occasion, allow me to clarify the content of that political speech, as I am concerned there might be misinterpretations." AHY explained that the speech was a reflection and contemplation, aimed at encouraging party cadres, reinforcing party values, and ensuring all cadres understand their responsibilities as part of the current government. He reiterated the Democratic Party's clear position: to support the success of the government under President Prabowo Subianto, as the government's success is the success of the entire community. "The Democratic Party's position is clear, the Democratic Party's position is clear, we want the government of President Prabowo Subianto to succeed. There is nothing else but the success and achievement of this government," AHY said. In response, President Prabowo acknowledged AHY's remarks, stating that if the speech contained criticism, it was a normal part of democratic life. "Indeed, some circles assessed Pak AHY's speech a few days ago as sharp criticism, but we, as a great nation that has chosen the path of democracy, must be grateful for criticism and correction," the President said at the Democratic Party's anniversary celebration. He also noted AHY's firm statement of intent to work together for the people. In his speech on Saturday (5/9), AHY had alluded to the fact that a leader or president has a time limit. Following this, a Deputy Chairman of the Golkar Party suggested that AHY's remarks signaled his readiness to be a contender in the upcoming presidential election. Ahmad Doli Kurnia, Deputy Chairman of the Golkar Party and Deputy Chairman of the Legislation Body of the House of Representatives, previously believed that AHY would be a contestant in the upcoming Presidential Election (Pilpres). Doli responded to AHY's speech at the 25th anniversary of the Democratic Party on Saturday (5/9). He fully agreed with AHY's statement in his speech that power is a mandate with a time limit. However, the Deputy Chairman of the Legislation Body of the House of Representatives admitted to being surprised by the substance of AHY's speech, especially since the country is facing great challenges. Moreover, the Democratic Party and AHY are part of the government coalition and should share responsibility. "However, judging from the nuance of delivery, gesture, and standing position, AHY seemed to give a strong signal that he is ready to be one of the contenders in the upcoming Presidential Election," said Doli when contacted on Monday (7/9).