Reject Offerings To Become Ministers, Luhut Says He Is Ready To Be Prabowo's Advisor

JAKARTA - Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan admitted that he had been offered by the elected president, Prabowo Subianto as a minister in the upcoming government cabinet.

"He (Prabowo) has asked (to become a minister). I say he will not (continue to become a minister)," said Luhut after attending the Segara Kerthi ceremony, World Water Forum 10 in the Bali Turtle area, Denpasar.

However, Luhut expressed his readiness to become an advisor to help Prabowo Subianto.

"I am ready to help according to his request as an advisor, if the assistance is still being requested," said Luhut.

Luhut also believes that Prabowo will continue the programs that have been initiated since the leadership period of Joko Widodo (Jokowi).

"He will continue (Jokowi's program). Of course there may be adjustments here and there, but I think what has been laid by Pak Joko Widodo is a very, very good foundation," said Luhut.

It is known that Luhut had previously advised Prabowo not to bring toxic people to his government.

"To the elected president, I say don't bring toxic people into your government, because it will be very detrimental to us. I firmly believe the elected president can do many things for this country to be better in the future," Luhut said in his remarks at an event entitled "Jakarta Future Forum: Blue Horizons, Green Growth" in Jakarta, Friday last week.

Prabowo will be officially inaugurated as president of the Republic of Indonesia for the period 2024-2029 on 20 October, replacing President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) who has led the country for two terms. Prabowo was inaugurated with the elected vice president, Gibran Rakabuming Raka - who is also President Jokowi's eldest son - in the upcoming government.