### Prabowo Subianto Sworn in as Indonesia's Eighth President

Prabowo Subianto has officially taken over as the president of Indonesia, marking a significant turn in the country's political landscape. At 73 years old, the former military commander ascended to the highest office of the world's third-largest democracy amid promises to tackle critical issues like corruption and promote self-sufficiency.

Dressed in a navy suit, traditional black hat, and a woven maroon and golden sarong, Prabowo was inaugurated on Sunday morning at a ceremony held in Indonesia's parliament. Addressing the lawmakers in a passionate speech, he emphasized his commitment to serve all Indonesians and called on the nation to unite in addressing its challenges.

"We must always realise that a free nation is where the people are free," Prabowo declared, emphasizing the need to eradicate fear, poverty, hunger, ignorance, oppression, and suffering.

A significant part of his speech focused on his vision for a more self-sufficient Indonesia. Prabowo asserted that achieving food self-sufficiency within five years is possible and also promised strides toward energy independence. He reiterated his commitment to battling corruption and stressed the importance of a polite and respectful democratic society, stating, "A difference of opinion must come without enmity... fighting without hating."

Prabowo won the presidential election held on February 14 with nearly 60% of the vote. Over the past nine months, he has built a strong parliamentary coalition, consolidating his political power. Appearing alongside him at the swearing-in ceremony was his running mate, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the 37-year-old son of outgoing President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo.

Later that day, Prabowo announced his new cabinet, which consisted of a mix of professional and political appointees. Notably, most of the economics-related ministers from the Jokowi administration remained in their positions, ensuring a degree of continuity in economic policy. A significant change came with the appointment of Sugiono, a former special forces officer, as the new foreign minister. The entire cabinet is set to be sworn in on Monday morning.

Following his address, Prabowo donned a baseball cap and traveled to the presidential palace. Thousands of supporters lined the streets, creating a festive atmosphere as they greeted him with flags and cheers. Outside the palace, flower boards either congratulated the new president and vice president or expressed gratitude for Jokowi's decade of service.

Despite leaving behind a legacy of strong economic growth and substantial infrastructure development, Jokowi's tenure has faced criticism for increasing patronage and dynastic politics, with concerns over potential declines in the integrity of state institutions. Nevertheless, many Indonesians, including bystander Anneta Yuniar, expressed optimism about Prabowo's leadership and his commitment to continuing Jokowi's development agenda.

In his speech, Prabowo also addressed foreign policy, reaffirming Indonesia's non-aligned stance globally. He voiced support for the Palestinian cause and expressed Indonesia's readiness to send additional aid to Gaza.

Prabowo's victory came despite past allegations of involvement in human rights abuses, which he has consistently denied. These unproven allegations have raised concerns among some human rights advocates regarding Indonesia's democratic future. Prabowo's controversial dismissal from the military occurred in 1998, coinciding with Indonesia's transition from the authoritarian rule of former President Suharto.

As Prabowo embarks on his presidency, the eyes of the nation and the world will be watching how he navigates the challenges and fulfills his ambitious promises.