In today’s political game, Jokowi has lost ground. But Prabowo is facing a much bigger challenge: the economy and people’s prosperity. Economically, Prabowo’s cabinet is struggling with high unemployment, a weakening exchange rate, low tax revenues, and other challenges. Meanwhile, people’s purchasing power is declining. Deputy Trade Minister Drajad Wibowo pointed to a shift in consumption patterns, while people are increasingly feeling the economic squeeze.
Therefore, my argument is simple: it is easy to fight Jokowi, but difficult to win people’s hearts. To win Indonesia’s 2029 election, Prabowo must earn people’s trust and support through his policies and programs.
It’s Not About Us
However, people see the political turmoil surrounding Gibran as a war among the elites. It is essentially a power struggle. The Solo Gang is fading away, while Prabowo’s political position is becoming increasingly strong.
Meanwhile, people feel that this political battle brings them no benefits. On the contrary, they are becoming victims of the conflict involving security forces. The situation in Yogyakarta has become worse as police officers have confronted civil society groups and even entered the UGM campus. People have been exposed to tear gas, while protesters and students have faced physical violence and arrests by the police.
In short, the battle is taking place at the elite level, while ordinary people are the ones bearing the consequences.
It’s Time to Deliver
When people perceive the discourse surrounding Gibran’s impeachment as merely an elite power struggle, with both sides fighting for their own interests rather than those of the people, it is time to shift the focus toward delivering real benefits to society.
To date, Prabowo’s cabinet has yet to deliver meaningful improvements in people’s prosperity. The government has introduced several ambitious programs, such as free nutritious meals (MBG), village cooperatives (Kopdes), food sovereignty, and others. However, their significant impact on society has yet to materialize.
According to CELIOS, Indonesia’s wealth inequality remains high. The wealth of the 50 richest people in Indonesia is equivalent to that of 55 million people. Wealth remains concentrated among the elites who control capital, political power, and businesses. This could become a ticking time bomb if the government fails to deliver prosperity to the people.
It’s Time to Turn Things Around
According to Peter Cuneo’s Superhero Leadership (2026), successful leadership is determined by the ability to bring about change in the face of worsening conditions.
Now, it is time for Prabowo to turn things around: transform public dissatisfaction into public satisfaction.
Prabowo’s biggest challenge is no longer defeating his political opponents. It is winning the hearts of the people. []