PDIP Chair Andreas Hugo Pareira has responded to praise and expressions of gratitude from President Prabowo Subianto, who recently acknowledged the party’s constructive criticism of his administration. The President’s remarks were made during a plenary session at the House of Representatives (DPR) on Wednesday (May 20), while he was delivering the Macroeconomic Framework (KEM) and the Principles of Fiscal Policy (PPKF).
Addressing the media at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, Andreas emphasized that PDIP’s decision to remain outside the government is a deliberate strategy to provide external oversight and alternative viewpoints. He noted that their role as an opposition party is intended to ensure national progress through positive, evidence-based feedback.
“We thank the President for his acknowledgment. PDIP is indeed operating outside the government, and our function has consistently been to offer positive criticisms. We aim to provide a ‘second opinion’ to the administration to help improve the current situation,” Andreas stated.
According to Andreas, the feedback offered by PDIP serves as essential input to enhance the quality of government policies. He believes that President Prabowo recognizes the value of having a critical partner to ensure that the government remains on the right track.
“He (Prabowo) has expressed that he values the perspectives coming from PDIP. It is not about personal feelings, but about maintaining a rational approach. We are confident that these criticisms are well-intentioned, and that is precisely what we have been doing,” he added.
Previously, during his address on the 2027 State Budget’s fiscal framework, President Prabowo publicly lauded PDIP for choosing to serve as an opposition force. He admitted that the sharp critiques frequently voiced by the PDIP faction in the House often serve as a vital source of reflection for his administration.
“Every leader must be willing to be criticized and monitored. Sometimes, before I sleep, I feel saddened by how harsh the criticisms from PDIP members can be, but I realize that there is often a valid basis for what they are saying,” Prabowo admitted.
The President further emphasized that criticism should not be viewed as inherently negative. Instead, he likened it to a necessary warning that ultimately helps the government stay focused on its mandate.
“There is a saying: we may not like it when someone warns us, but in truth, they are the ones saving us,” the President concluded.
Summary
PDIP official Andreas Hugo Pareira has expressed appreciation for President Prabowo Subianto’s acknowledgment of the party’s constructive criticism. By operating as an opposition force, PDIP aims to provide a “second opinion” and offer evidence-based feedback to help improve the government’s policy quality and ensure national progress.
President Prabowo welcomed this critical oversight, stating that he values the party’s input as a vital source of reflection for his administration. While admitting that harsh criticism can be challenging to receive, he emphasized that such warnings are essential for keeping the government focused and on the right track.