By Muhammad Yuntri
After the 2024 Presidential Election, the public space is filled with anxiety. Not only due to the politically charged dynamics, but also due to the emerging signs of decline in democracy and the rule of law in Indonesia.
Amid this stagnation and pessimism, an interesting and unusual idea has emerged: to appoint Anies Baswedan as Prime Minister. This is not to overthrow anyone, but rather to save the future direction of the nation.
Crisis of Legitimacy
It cannot be denied, the 2024 election left scars on most of society, particularly among Anies supporters. They perceive a process full of alleged violations, ranging from power interventions to rule manipulations.
This is where the crisis of legitimacy lies. In political law, legitimacy is the foundation of lawful power. When this foundation is shaky, the state can be unstable.
On the other hand, Anies is considered to still have strong social and moral capital. As a former governor of Jakarta, he was known for his orderly administration, communicative nature with the people, and visionary policies.
The former Rector of Paramadina University could be the figure bringing a “breath of fresh air” amidst governmental stagnation. It is no surprise then, that hopes arise for him to be given an executive role, one of which is as Prime Minister.
But, isn’t Indonesia a Presidential State? That’s true, Indonesia adheres to a presidential system. However, history records that in times of emergency, Indonesia has had a parliamentary-like government model, such as the Hatta and Sjahrir Cabinets during Soekarno’s era.
This means, historically, Indonesia has been flexible in composing government systems. Of course, with the right legal basis. In today’s context, this can be done constitutionally: President Prabowo issues a Government Regulation in Lieu of Law (PERPPU), then the House of Representatives (DPR) approves it.
This paves the way for the establishment of a legitimate Prime Minister position. Prabowo remains as the head of state, while Anies becomes the head of government, focusing on handling bureaucratic, economic, and legal reforms.
Realistic and Visionary
Many circles in Indonesia think that these two figures, Prabowo and Anies, cannot work together. However, in the political world, history proves that compromise for the people’s interest is the most rational path.
In this scenario, Prabowo Subianto focuses on carrying out symbolic tasks and high diplomacy as President of Indonesia, while Anies Baswedan manages the daily government alongside the cabinet.
Imagine if this synergy works: two great powers that once opposed each other then unite to welcome Indonesia Gold 2045. People will see that political elites can mature and prioritize the nation, not personal ambition.
This idea also addresses other complex issues: Prabowo is currently deemed trapped in Jokowi’s political legacy scenario. From the presence of Gibran as Vice President, Jokowi loyalists’ dominance in the cabinet, to policies favoring the oligarchy. This limits Prabowo’s maneuvers.
By sharing the burden of power, Prabowo could “breathe long” and focus on maintaining the symbol of the state. He can break free from the old political scenario trap, while Anies implements government reforms without the pressure of past elites.
But the challenges are not only domestic. International pressures like the global vaccine, especially the TBC vaccine offered by Bill Gates with a number of compensations suspected to have hidden missions unfavorable to the Indonesian people, and the agenda of foreign investment to the penetration of ideological values not aligned with Pancasila.
Therefore, a leader capable of facing these challenges with a cool head and a global perspective is needed in the future. Here, Anies, with his international network and academic credibility, can play a significant role.
Facts on the ground show that people are still economically struggling, losing trust in law, and pessimistic about the future.
Relying only on “transactional politics” or elites maintaining position protection, then the problem will deepen. What people need is political courage to make breakthroughs, and one of the most elegant options is: Prabowo as President, Anies as Prime Minister.
This discourse may sound extreme, but it’s not impossible. Political law always opens room for constitutional innovation, provided the basis is legitimate and the goal is clear: to save the nation.
If the elites in Senayan and the Palace dare to think outside the box, 2025 could be the starting point of a new history: Indonesia that is not only stable but also just and visionary.
The author, Muhammad Yuntri, is a Political and Legal Analyst
