Critical space narrows as Prabowo's brother embraces mass orgs
The growing consolidation of mass organizations under a group cofounded by President Prabowo Subianto’s younger brother Hashim Djojohadikusumo to support government programs has raised concerns over the potential narrowing of space for criticism and the weakening of independent voices.
A growing alliance of mass organizations, founded by President Prabowo Subianto's younger brother Hashim Djojohadikusumo, has sparked concerns about the narrowing of space for dissenting voices and the diminishing influence of independent organizations. At the Golden Indonesia Community Forum's second anniversary gathering in Jakarta, the forum welcomed 20 new groups, raising its membership to 103.
Among the newcomers were several organizations that backed Prabowo during the 2024 presidential election, such as Perisai Prabowo and Matahari Pagi, as well as groups addressing social, economic, youth, and women's concerns.
Formas chief Serian Wijatno stated that the expansion aimed to rally mass organizations to actively participate in national development rather than merely observe. "This is a concrete step for civil society organizations to support and monitor the government's development programs, while responding to the challenges Indonesia faces today," he explained.
Meanwhile, Formas chairman Yohanes Handojo Budhisedjati expressed optimism that the increased membership would bolster the organization's capacity to bolster Prabowo's administration. "Formas is here to help realize programs that serve the people. We want to ensure that the government's strategic policies are truly felt by the public," he added.
Written by urgent.news from The Jakarta Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
