Andreas Hugo Pareira, a senior official of the PDI-P Central Executive Board (DPP), has responded to President Prabowo Subianto’s recent remarks acknowledging and thanking the party for its ongoing criticism of his administration. The President’s comments were made during his address on the Macroeconomic Framework (KEM) and the Principles of Fiscal Policy (PPKF) at the DPR Plenary Session on Wednesday (May 20).
Andreas affirmed that PDI-P’s decision to remain outside the government is a deliberate strategy to serve as an opposition force, offering alternative perspectives aimed at improving national conditions. “Thank you, Mr. President, for the acknowledgment. PDI-P is committed to its role as a political party outside the government, providing constructive criticism,” Andreas stated at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta.
He further explained that this dynamic functions as a vital “second opinion” for the administration. By maintaining a critical stance, PDI-P aims to ensure that government policies are rigorously evaluated and refined for the benefit of the public. According to Andreas, President Prabowo recognizes the value of this oversight, noting that the administration genuinely benefits from the party’s analytical input.
“The President himself has expressed that he values the insights provided by PDI-P. This is not about personal feelings, but about a rational approach to governance. Our criticisms are intended to be positive and meaningful, which is exactly how we have been operating,” he added.
During his address regarding the 2027 State Budget (RAPBN) framework, President Prabowo publicly expressed his appreciation for PDI-P’s commitment to staying outside the cabinet to fulfill its oversight function. The President admitted that he frequently reflects on the sharp critiques delivered by PDI-P faction members, acknowledging that they often serve as a necessary catalyst for introspection.
“Every leader must be willing to be criticized and monitored. Sometimes, before I go to sleep, I feel saddened by the harsh critiques from PDI-P members, but I realize that their points often have merit,” President Prabowo remarked.
The President emphasized that criticism should not be viewed as inherently negative. Instead, he framed it as a essential warning system that helps keep the government on the right path. “There is an old saying: we may not like those who warn us, but in reality, they are the ones saving us,” he concluded.
Summary
PDI-P senior official Andreas Hugo Pareira responded to President Prabowo Subianto’s appreciation for the party’s critical stance, affirming that remaining outside the government is a deliberate strategy to provide constructive oversight. The party functions as a vital “second opinion” to ensure that state policies are thoroughly evaluated and refined for the public interest. Andreas emphasized that this relationship is based on a rational approach to governance rather than personal sentiment.
President Prabowo himself acknowledged the value of PDI-P’s input during a plenary session, noting that the party’s sharp critiques serve as a necessary catalyst for introspection. He stated that while harsh feedback can be difficult to receive, he recognizes its merit in keeping the administration on the right path. Ultimately, the President described this oversight as an essential warning system that contributes to better governance.