Prabowo Admits Staff Remind Him to Stick to Speech Text, Cites Democratic Values

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto acknowledged on Wednesday (9/9) that his staff frequently reminds him to stick to prepared speech texts during his addresses. Speaking at the 25th anniversary of the Democratic Party held at the Indonesia Arena in Gelora Bung Karno, Jakarta, Prabowo admitted that his team often urges him, "Sir, please use the text, Sir. Don't deviate from the text." Prabowo noted that the speech texts prepared by his staff for the Democratic Party's anniversary event were very well-crafted, complete with detailed explanations and infographics. He even held up the text to show the audience its comprehensive nature. However, the President stated his preference for summarizing the essence of the prepared remarks. He expressed hope that he would not make any speaking errors, adding that if humans make mistakes, they should simply apologize. Prabowo emphasized the importance of maintaining unity and friendship in the practice of democracy, even amidst differing views, competition, or criticism. "This is Indonesian democracy. And today, on this stage, this is Indonesian democracy. Various colors. Competing, criticizing, offering suggestions, giving recommendations. Conveying things that may be unpleasant to convey, but we remain united, remain friendly, remain family," Prabowo said, quoting from a press release from the Indonesian Government's Communication Agency (Bakom). He also touched upon the political journey of the Democratic Party and his own experiences of electoral victories and defeats. Prabowo highly appreciated the Democratic Party's stance in upholding democracy when they were outside the government. "The Democratic Party has won, has not won. Has been at the peak, has been in government. But when not in power, the Democratic Party did not curse. The Democratic Party did not burn things down," he remarked. Prabowo also expressed his gratitude for the Democratic Party's support during the 2019 and 2024 election periods, stating that this support indicates shared aspirations and principles in building Indonesia. "Because we indeed have the same aspirations and principles," said Prabowo, who is also the Chairman of the Gerindra Party's Supervisory Board and Chairman of the Party. Source: CNN Indonesia