In a surprising turn of events, allegations of potential electoral fraud have emerged in the lead-up to the Indonesian presidential election. The accusations involve the utilization of state apparatus to manipulate the voting process, according to inside sources.

During an internal meeting last Wednesday, discussions were held among army and intelligence officials regarding a plan to employ the state apparatus for electoral fraud if necessary, as revealed by two individuals familiar with the matter. The scheme reportedly entails the distribution of money to fix precinct-level tabulation sheets, with the involvement of police and "babinsas" - the army's local representatives. Additionally, there are claims of potential hacking of the electoral commission's internal system.

Campaign officials, who reportedly have utilized similar tactics on a local level where they hold influence, have raised concerns about the implication of such actions on a national scale, warning that it may undermine Indonesian democracy and pave the way to despotic rule.

At the center of controversy is Prabowo, the son-in-law of former dictator Gen. Suharto, who ruled the country with U.S. support for 32 years. Prabowo, who comes from a wealthy banking family and owns vast plantations, mining, and industrial properties, has been accused of involvement in the massacres and human rights abuses that occurred during Suharto's regime.

Prabowo's alleged role in the armed forces' brutal campaigns, including the killings of hundreds of civilians in East Timor, has been extensively documented. Reports suggest that he personally participated in the torture of captives. He has also admitted to close collaboration with the United States, having received training from U.S. military institutions, and reportedly working with the Pentagon and the Defense Intelligence Agency on multiple occasions.

These revelations have sparked outrage among human rights advocates and survivors of past atrocities, who had previously supported Prabowo's rival, Jokowi, in the previous elections. Jokowi, who initially spoke out against returning to dictatorship, had promised to hold Prabowo and other generals accountable for war crimes. However, under sustained pressure, his stance shifted, leading to increased domestic repression and collaboration with the military.

As the election draws near, Prabowo has gained support from unexpected quarters, including influential Indonesian oligarchs. Among them is Tomy Winata, a business magnate known for his ties to the military and generals. Winata, while describing himself as neutral, spoke highly of Prabowo and expressed the need for a strong leader. However, he questioned the veracity of the allegations regarding Prabowo's involvement in massacres, stating that he had not witnessed such incidents personally.

With the election just weeks away, these allegations of electoral fraud have intensified the already contentious political landscape in Indonesia. Many are closely watching developments, hoping for a free and fair electoral process that upholds the principles of democracy without any interference or manipulation.

Only time will tell how this controversy unfolds and what impact it will have on the Indonesian people's trust in their democratic system and the future of the nation.