Indonesian president's allies distance themselves from flagship free meals programme

A recent poll conducted in October indicated that around 62% of Indonesians oppose the country's flagship free meals programme. This initiative, launched by President Prabowo Subianto, aimed to provide nutritious meals to 83 million children and pregnant women, but has faced significant criticism due to mass food poisoning incidents, logistical challenges, and allegations of corruption.

Two coalition parties have decided to distance themselves from the programme, citing concerns over their electoral prospects and falling popularity. A third party expressed fear that the issues with the scheme would hurt their support. Collectively, these parties represent more than a quarter of the 80% parliamentary majority backing Prabowo.

The programme's survival is now seen as critical to the coalition's future, with potential instability if improvements are not made by mid-2027. The President's approval rating has steadily declined, falling from 81% in November 2024 to 44.5% in October 2024. Despite the controversies, Prabowo has defended the initiative, arguing that it is statistically successful and has vowed to make improvements.