Prabowo: Government is not anti-criticism, but rejects slander and insults

JAKARTA - President Prabowo Subianto emphasized that the government is not anti-criticism and considers criticism as an important part of democratic life. However, he reminded that the criticism delivered should not turn into slander or insults that actually damage the spirit of building the nation.

"We are a democratic country. We are not anti-criticism. Criticism is saving. But there is a difference between criticism and insults. Criticism with slander is different," said Prabowo when delivering a speech at the 28th Anniversary of the National Awakening Party (PKB) at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC), Senayan, Jakarta, Thursday, July 23.

According to Prabowo, criticism that is delivered objectively and constructively has an important function to correct the course of government so that it needs to be accepted as part of the democratic mechanism.

He emphasized that the government would continue to focus on working and would not waver in the face of various criticisms and attacks as long as it was on the right track and prioritized the interests of the people.

"But there is no problem. There is no problem. If we are right, if we are on the right path, we will continue to be strong," he said.

In his speech, Prabowo also touched on various narratives that he considered as trying to weaken public confidence in the condition of Indonesia.

"We understand that there is a big campaign to make us waver. Indonesia (is said) will collapse," he said.

The President invited all elements of the nation to maintain optimism and provide support for various national development programs. He likened the government to a team that was competing and needed public support to be able to deliver the best results.

"If we love one team, for example, he is playing again on the field, we are supporters, 'Come on, come on, go ahead.' But don't lower your morale, people are still playing there. Later you will lose," he said.

Prabowo emphasized that differences of opinion were normal in a democratic country. However, he hoped that all parties would still prioritize national interests and avoid the spread of incorrect information and slander that had the potential to divide society.

"Let's fight together for the nation and the people of Indonesia," said Prabowo.