Following the 2024 presidential election, public discourse is filled with anxiety. This stems not only from the politically tense dynamics but also from emerging signs of democratic decline and weakening rule of law in Indonesia.

Amid this stagnation and pessimism, an interesting and unconventional idea has emerged: appointing Anies Baswedan as prime minister. The goal is not to overthrow anyone but rather to rescue the nation’s future trajectory.

Legitimacy Crisis

It cannot be denied that the 2024 elections left scars on much of society, particularly among Anies’ supporters. They perceive the process as riddled with alleged violations, ranging from government interference to rule manipulation.

This is where the legitimacy crisis lies. In political theory, legitimacy is the foundation of lawful authority. When this foundation is shaky, the state can become unstable.

On the other hand, Anies is still seen as possessing strong social and moral capital. As former governor of Jakarta, he was known for his orderly governance, approachability, and forward-thinking policies.

The former rector of Paramadina University could be the figure to bring a «breath of fresh air» amid governmental stagnation. Thus, it’s no surprise that hopes are pinned on him taking an executive role—one possibility being the position of prime minister.

But isn’t Indonesia a presidential system? True, Indonesia follows a presidential model. However, history shows that in emergencies, Indonesia has adopted quasi-parliamentary governance, such as the cabinets of Hatta and Sjahrir during Sukarno’s era.

This means Indonesia has historically been flexible in shaping governance structures—provided there is legal grounding. Today, this could be achieved constitutionally: President Prabowo could issue a government regulation in lieu of law (PERPPU), later ratified by the House of Representatives (DPR).

This would pave the way for a legitimate prime ministerial role. Prabowo would remain head of state, while Anies would lead the government, focusing on bureaucratic, economic, and legal reforms.

Realistic and Visionary

Many in Indonesia believe Prabowo and Anies cannot work together. Yet political history proves that compromise for the people’s benefit is the most rational path.

In this scenario, Prabowo Subianto would focus on symbolic duties and high-level diplomacy as Indonesia’s president, while Anies Baswedan would manage day-to-day governance alongside the cabinet.

Imagine if this synergy succeeds: two major forces once at odds uniting to realize Indonesia Gold 2045. The public would witness political elites maturing and prioritizing the nation over personal ambitions.

This idea also addresses other complex issues: Prabowo is currently seen as constrained by Jokowi’s political legacy—from Gibran’s vice presidency to Jokowi-aligned dominance in the cabinet and oligarchy-friendly policies. This limits Prabowo’s maneuvering room.

By sharing power, Prabowo could «catch his breath» and focus on preserving state symbolism. He could break free from old political traps, while Anies drives reforms without pressure from past elites.

But challenges aren’t only domestic. International pressures—like Bill Gates’ proposed global TB vaccine with suspected hidden agendas, or foreign investment pushing ideological values misaligned with Pancasila—require vigilant leadership.

Thus, Indonesia needs a leader who can cool-headedly counter these challenges with a global perspective. Here, Anies—with his international network and academic credibility—could play a key role.

On the ground, people still face economic hardship, eroding trust in the law, and pessimism about the future.

Relying solely on «transactional politics» or elite power preservation will worsen the problem. The public needs political boldness for a breakthrough—one elegant solution being: Prabowo as president, Anies as prime minister.

This reasoning may seem extreme, but it’s not impossible. Political theory always allows constitutional innovation—provided the basis is lawful and the goal clear: saving the nation.

If elites in Senayan and the palace dare to think outside the box, 2025 could mark the start of a new history: an Indonesia that is not only stable but also just and visionary.

Paramadina University

Paramadina University is a private university in Jakarta, Indonesia, founded in 1998 by prominent intellectuals and public figures, including Nurcholish Madjid, as a center for progressive Islamic thought and interdisciplinary education. It emphasizes values of pluralism, critical thinking, and social responsibility, offering programs in social sciences, humanities, and Islamic studies. The university is known for fostering dialogue between religion, culture, and modernity in Indonesia.

Jakarta

Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history dating back to the 4th century as a Hindu port city. It later became a major trading hub under Dutch colonial rule in the 17th century, known as Batavia. Today, Jakarta is a vibrant cultural and economic center, blending modern skyscrapers with historic landmarks like the Old Town (Kota Tua) and the National Monument (Monas).

Indonesia Gold 2045

«Indonesia Gold 2045» is a national vision and strategic initiative launched by the Indonesian government to celebrate the country’s centennial independence in 2045, aiming to transform Indonesia into a developed, prosperous, and globally competitive nation. The plan focuses on sustainable development, technological advancement, and human resource improvement, building on Indonesia’s economic growth and democratic progress since its independence in 1945. It reflects the country’s aspirations to achieve a «Golden Indonesia» through long-term policies in education, infrastructure, and innovation.

Pancasila

Pancasila is the foundational philosophical theory of Indonesia, serving as the official state ideology since its proclamation on June 1, 1945, by Sukarno, Indonesia’s first president. It consists of five principles: belief in one God, just and civilized humanity, the unity of Indonesia, democracy guided by wisdom, and social justice for all. Pancasila was established to unify Indonesia’s diverse population and remains a key element of national identity and governance.

Senayan

Senayan is a prominent area in Jakarta, Indonesia, known for its sports and entertainment facilities, most notably the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, built in 1962 for the Asian Games. The area was originally a vast marshland before being developed under President Sukarno’s modernization projects. Today, Senayan is a bustling hub featuring shopping malls, offices, and cultural venues, reflecting Jakarta’s urban growth.

House of Representatives (DPR)

The **House of Representatives (DPR — Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat)** is the lower house of Indonesia’s legislative branch, established in 1945 after independence. It plays a key role in lawmaking, budgeting, and overseeing government policies. Originally part of a unicameral system, it became bicameral in 2004 with the creation of the Regional Representative Council (DPD).

Bill Gates

Bill Gates is not a place or cultural site but a renowned American business magnate, software developer, and philanthropist. He co-founded Microsoft in 1975, revolutionizing personal computing, and later established the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, one of the world’s largest private charitable organizations. His contributions to technology and global health have left a lasting impact worldwide.

Sukarno

Sukarno (1901–1970) was the first President of Indonesia, serving from 1945 to 1967, and a key figure in the country’s struggle for independence from Dutch colonial rule. A charismatic leader and prominent nationalist, he co-founded the Non-Aligned Movement and promoted the ideology of «Pancasila» as Indonesia’s foundational philosophy. After political turmoil, he was gradually sidelined by Suharto, who eventually succeeded him. Sukarno remains a revered symbol of Indonesian independence and unity.