Eka Yudha Saputra, Jakarta – Several political analysts believe that President Prabowo Subianto's decision to grant abolition to Tom Lembong and amnesty to Hasto Kristiyanto reflects an attempt to embrace all political factions, including his oppositions.
According to Adi Prayitno, a political science lecturer at Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University in Jakarta, this move may be aimed at maintaining political harmony and fostering collaboration across the board.
"From this action, it appears that the key argument is to maintain a stable and harmonious political environment," Adi said in a phone interview on Friday, August 1, 2025.
Adi noted that the cases involving Tom Lembong and Hasto Kristiyanto have drawn significant public scrutiny, as many view the legal proceedings against them as politically charged rather than purely legal in nature.
"These cases have caused significant public polarization and triggered harsh criticism against the government," he said.
Tom Lembong supported Anies Baswedan, while Hasto Kristiyanto backed Ganjar Pranowo. Both candidates were opponents of Prabowo in the 2024 presidential election.
According to Adi, Prabowo's move may be an effort to neutralize political tension by engaging figures from outside his government.
However, Adi does not interpret the amnesty for Hasto as a sign that the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) will officially join Prabowo's coalition.
"It's not that straightforward. PDIP appears to position itself as opposition, but in practice, the party continues to support Prabowo," he added.
A similar view was expressed by Hendri Satrio, a political communication lecturer at Paramadina University. He said Prabowo's actions signal a political gesture to reach out to all parties, including former rivals, in an effort to unify the country.
Hendri, known by the nickname Hensa, believes this move is part of Prabowo's strategy to ease lingering political divisions after the election. By releasing Tom and Hasto, Prabowo is demonstrating that he governs on behalf of all groups, not just his own supporters.
Hensa also noted that the decision could open the door for dialogue with the opposition, particularly the PDIP, which maintains significant influence in parliament and among the public.
"This can be an important political capital to de-escalate tensions and begin meaningful communication with PDIP and Tom Lembong's circles," he said in a statement on Friday.
Still, Hensa acknowledged the political risk behind granting abolition and amnesty to two individuals tied to corruption cases. He warned that the move could raise concerns about Prabowo compromising his anti-corruption stance for political gain.
"Even though the authority lies with the president, critics may see this as undermining the pursuit of justice," he said.
To mitigate such perceptions, Hensa urged the government to clearly communicate the reasons behind the decision. If the public views this move as a genuine attempt at reconciliation, it could boost Prabowo's legitimacy. However, if people see it as political opportunism, trust in the administration may decline.
"Prabowo is operating at a high political level. He is using symbolic gestures to promote unity, but if the public believes it's a facade, his narrative could fall apart," he warned.
Hensa also sees this initiative as a message to political elites that Prabowo is ready to cooperate. By releasing Hasto, he is likely reaching out to PDIP and its leader Megawati Soekarnoputri. Similarly, Tom's abolition may serve as a signal to professionals and technocrats.
"Prabowo is saying, 'Let's sit at the same table.' But he must also be ready if some refuse or question his intentions," Hensa concluded.