Ervana Trikarinaputri, Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto has signaled the possibility of running in Indonesia's 2029 presidential election, making the remarks during a briefing at the 2026 National Coordination Meeting of central and regional governments.
Speaking at the meeting at the Sentul International Convention Center (SICC) in Bogor, West Java, on Monday, February 2, 2026, Prabowo urged all parties to avoid actions that could harm the nation. He also invited his critics to engage in open and fair political competition.
"If you do not like two or three individuals, do not destroy the entire nation," Prabowo said. "If you do not like Prabowo, please compete in 2029."
Prabowo, who also chairs the Gerindra Party, went on to address recent demonstrations, reiterating his claim that foreign interests were behind some mass actions.
He said protests were legitimate as long as they complied with the law, but warned that demonstrations that escalate into violence ultimately damage the country.
"These groups are definitely being controlled by foreign forces. I am sure of it. I have evidence," Prabowo said, without providing further details.
He added that demonstrations involving arson or the use of Molotov cocktails were dangerous and constituted criminal acts. According to Prabowo, while public protests are permitted, riots pose a threat to national stability and the state.