Mounting Pressure on Indonesia's Vice President Gibran Amid Impeachment Talks

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka is facing intensifying pressure as a group of retired military generals has formally petitioned the nation’s legislative bodies to begin impeachment proceedings against him. The group, known as Forum Purnawirawan Prajurit TNI (the Retired TNI Soldiers Forum), has called on the leadership of the House of Representatives and the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) to initiate the legal process of removing Gibran from office, citing alleged constitutional violations, ethical breaches, and concerns over his qualifications and performance.

The Forum Purnawirawan Declaration, signed by over 330 retired military officers, including prominent figures such as former Vice President Try Sutrisno and General Fachrul Razi, criticizes the constitutional amendment that enabled Gibran's candidacy in the 2024 presidential election, arguing it violated legal and ethical standards.

President Prabowo Subianto appears to be consolidating support from key figures once aligned with his political rivals. The joint appearance of Prabowo, former President Megawati Sukarnoputri, and former Vice President Try Sutrisno at the commemoration of Pancasila Day on June 2, 2025, can be interpreted as Prabowo asserting his political strength over Gibran, and, by extension, Jokowi, especially since both Megawati and Try Sutrisno are currently aligned against the Jokowi family.

The political landscape in Indonesia is further complicated by ongoing protests across the country. The 2025 Indonesian protests, known as the #IndonesiaGelap demonstrations, have been fueled by rising unemployment, economic hardship, and alleged democratic backsliding. Protesters have also expressed concerns over the supposed influence of former President Joko Widodo on Prabowo Subianto's government and controversial policies enacted by Prabowo and Gibran.

As the situation develops, the Indonesian government faces mounting challenges in addressing both internal political tensions and public dissatisfaction. The outcome of the impeachment talks and the government's response to the protests will significantly impact Indonesia's political stability and democratic trajectory.

_Daily Growth Insights