Speaking at the inauguration of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) leadership for the 2025–2030 term at Jakarta’s Istiqlal Mosque, Prabowo said the government routinely faces counterattacks when it strengthens law enforcement against graft.
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“Every time we try to eradicate corruption, every time we try to uphold justice, these looter groups strike back,” Prabowo said, referring to what he described as “gangs of plunderers” who resist tougher action.
He said such groups seek to create unrest and sow divisions within society to protect their interests.
“They always want to stir chaos and pit us against one another,” he said, adding that their goal is to prevent the emergence of a clean and accountable government.
Prabowo called on all elements of society, including religious scholars and community leaders, to unite behind the fight against corruption, which he described as a shared national responsibility.
“Let us stand together,” he said. “We must safeguard this republic, protect the nation’s wealth, and have the courage to eradicate corruption from Indonesian soil.”
The president said Indonesia is a country rich in natural and economic resources, but many citizens continue to live in poverty because corrupt practices have drained state assets for decades.
Acknowledging the scale of the challenge, Prabowo said the anti-corruption drive is not an easy task and will inevitably face resistance from those who have benefited from illicit gains.
Still, he vowed not to retreat. “I was sworn in before the people to uphold the law,” he said. “I will not hesitate, and I will not step back even an inch.”
Prabowo also thanked the Indonesian Ulema Council for its support, saying backing from religious leaders has strengthened his resolve.
“Thank you to MUI for giving me a surge of courage. When scholars and leaders stand united, I am confident justice can be upheld across Indonesia,” he said.
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Translator: Andi Firdaus, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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