The Forgotten Victims of Prabowo: How Indonesia’s Likely New President Haunts the Families of the Disappeared

Prabowo Subianto, the former military general and the likely new president of Indonesia, has a dark and controversial past that haunts many families of the disappeared. Prabowo is accused of being responsible for the abduction, torture, and killing of several pro-democracy activists during the 1998 riots that led to the fall of the authoritarian regime of Suharto, his former father-in-law and mentor.

According to a report by the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM), Prabowo and his subordinates from the Special Forces Command (Kopassus) were involved in the kidnapping of 23 activists, who were held in secret detention centers and subjected to brutal interrogation and abuse. Of the 23, some survived, one died, and 13 remain missing to this day.

Prabowo was dismissed from the military in 1998, amid the allegations of human rights violations, but he never faced trial or accountability for his actions. He has always denied any wrongdoing, and has claimed that he was acting under orders and following the law.

The Plight of the Families of the Disappeared

The families of the disappeared have been seeking justice and closure for more than two decades, but their efforts have been met with silence and indifference from the authorities and the society. They have been holding weekly silent protests, known as Kamisan, in front of the presidential palace in Jakarta, demanding the government to acknowledge and investigate the cases of the disappeared, and to provide compensation and rehabilitation for the victims and their families.

The families have also been facing various challenges and difficulties, such as the lack of legal and financial support, the stigma and discrimination from the public, and the trauma and grief of losing their loved ones. Some of the families have also received threats and intimidation from unknown sources, who have warned them to stop their activism and to accept Prabowo’s presidency.

Keep Reading

The Implications of Prabowo’s Presidency

Prabowo’s presidency, which is expected to be confirmed by the official results in May, has raised concerns and fears among the human rights and democracy advocates in Indonesia, who worry that his rise to power will undermine the progress and achievements of the reformasi era, and will enable the return of the authoritarian and militaristic practices of the past.

Prabowo has promised to uphold the constitution and the rule of law, and to respect the human rights and the diversity of the Indonesian people. However, he has also shown signs of intolerance and populism, such as his alliance with hardline Islamic groups, his rhetoric against foreign interference and minority rights, and his admiration for strongman leaders such as Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping.

The families of the disappeared, along with other human rights and democracy activists, have vowed to continue their struggle and to monitor and challenge Prabowo’s policies and actions, especially on the issues of accountability, justice, and reconciliation. They have also called on the international community and the civil society to support their cause and to pressure Prabowo to address the legacy and the reality of human rights abuses in Indonesia.

Tags: Prabowo
Noto

Jakarta-based Newswriter for The Asian Affairs. A budding newswriter that always keep track of the latest trends and news that are happening in my country Indonesia.

Recent Posts

Korea and UAE Forge New Paths in Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs)

With an eye toward healthcare and biotechnology especially, the Republic of Korea and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have lately…

November 5, 2024

Netflix Becomes a Surprising Hub for Shojo Anime Fans

Long prized for its romantic themes, nuanced characters, and emphasis on personal development, shojo anime has become an unexpected Netflix…

November 5, 2024

Indonesia Extends Sales Ban to Google Pixel Following Non-Compliance with Investment Requirements

Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry has implemented a ban on the sale of Google Pixel phones within the country, adding to…

November 4, 2024

One Piece Unveils Revamped Fish-Man Island Saga with New Opening Theme as Anime Prepares for 2025 Return

One Piece offers a new take of the legendary Fish-Man Island arc, so fans are in for a nostalgic trip…

November 4, 2024

Johor to Pioneer Premium Salaries for Skilled Workers as Malaysia’s First State Initiative under Johor-Singapore SEZ

Particularly in areas related to the forthcoming Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), Johor is poised to become the first state…

November 4, 2024

China-Japan Diplomatic Groundwork Laid Ahead of Anticipated Xi-Ishiba Summit in South America

China and Japan are getting ready for what would be a historic meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and freshly…

November 4, 2024

This website uses cookies.

Read More