Prabowo Says Democracy Can Be Bought by Authorities, Bupati Candidates Must Spend Rp 100 Billion

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto stated that the practice of democracy in Indonesia still faces serious issues due to the high political costs involved.

Prabowo expressed concerns that democracy in Indonesia could potentially be bought and sold by financially powerful groups through illegitimate means.

"We want democracy. But not a democracy that can be purchased, held hostage, or dominated by those with money. Money that is obtained through illicit means," Prabowo said during the opening of the Tanwir and the 114th Muhammadiyah Anniversary, as reported by the Presidential Secretariat's YouTube channel on Saturday (14/11/2026).

He noted that he has heard of candidates for regent needing to set aside up to Rp 100 billion, yet this does not guarantee victory in the contest.

"How can one become a regent by spending tens of billions of rupiah? I hear it's Rp 100 billion in some places, and it's not even certain you'll win," he remarked.

Not only that, Prabowo also mentioned the requirement of Rp 40-50 billion just to run for a seat in the Indonesian House of Representatives, despite the uncertainty of being elected.

"To become a member of the DPR it’s Rp 40 billion, Rp 50 billion, and still no guarantee of winning. What’s happening to our country? Is this what we aspire to, what our founders envisioned?" he said.

According to Prabowo, this is not the kind of democracy that the heroes and founders of the nation fought for.

"Is this the nation we are striving for? The one fought for by Ahmad Dahlan, the one championed by Ki Bagus Hadikusumo. No. I am sure it is not," he emphasized.

Furthermore, Prabowo stated that the majority of Indonesians also do not desire the current political situation.

The head of state urged political leaders to take responsibility to bring about reform.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I am confident the majority of the Indonesian people do not wish for the current atmosphere. And it is now the responsibility of leadership," he explained.