Red and white cabinet: between Prabowo’s goals and the 2029 race – Academia

On October 21, the “Red and White Cabinet” of Prabowo resident Subianto was opened, which includes 48 ministers, seven of whom are coordinating ministers, 56 deputy ministers and five heads of non-ministerial institutions.

Judging by statements by Gerindra Party figures in various media regarding preparations for the formation of the cabinet, there are at least four key sources from which Prabowo selected his ministers.

First, former President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo. There are 16 members of Jokowi’s cabinet that Prabowo has decided to retain as a sign of the continuity he promised during the presidential campaign. Moreover, the Jokowi factor is evident in his eldest son, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Rak.

Secondly, Prabowo’s younger brother Hadjim Jojohadikusumo, who suggested names from among businessmen, including those recommended by the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), where Hasjim heads the advisory board. As deputy chairman of Gerindra’s board of trustees, which is responsible for the party’s finances, Hasjim certainly has the power to nominate candidates for cabinet positions.

Thirdly, Gerindra’s executive chairman Sufmi Dasko Ahmad, who is also the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. With wide authority, Dasko has the privilege of suggesting names from among political parties and activists. His proximity to mining entrepreneurs allegedly allowed him to suggest people recommended by mining magnates.

Fourth, Prabowo and his longtime friend Shafri Syamsoeddin, who selected candidates from among the military, including graduates of Tarun Nusantara, a senior high school in Magelang, Central Java, founded by the Ministry of Defense. Naturally, Prabowo will feel comfortable and trust his military friends to help him achieve his goals and protect him from various interests in the cabinet.

The important question then is whether a bloated cabinet can help him realize the vision and programs he reiterated during his inaugural address on October 20.

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