The General Chairman of the Central Executive Board of the National Democratic Party Surya Paloh, stated that he continues to support President and Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto-Gibran Rakabuming Raka in implementing their government programs, but remains critical.
"Our support for President Prabowo's government is not just lip service (statements of support or praise). We want to give our full support, with sincerity and earnestness," he explained at the first NasDem National Working Meeting in Makassar, South Sulawesi.
He emphasized that support for the government must be based on objective facts and a sincere intention to build the nation. However, NasDem will not hesitate to applaud government steps deemed appropriate, but will speak out critically if the policies are inappropriate.
"If something is good, don't hesitate to say it's good. Implement it and continue it, Mr. President. But if something isn't quite right, don't hesitate to tell us so we can fix it together," he emphasized.
According to this senior politician, such an attitude is a form of independent thinking, namely support that does not blind common sense, but still upholds objectivity for the benefit of the people.
This year's NasDem Party National Working Meeting served as a platform for internal strength consolidation and a political statement affirming the party's position as part of the coalition supporting the government, while still upholding the principles of democracy and sound control.
Although the Prabowo-Gibran administration has been in its 10th month, party support remains strong, but it remains grounded in objective facts and can offer constructive criticism when necessary.
Paloh reiterated that political parties have prerogatives not afforded to institutions other than political parties. "We can elect presidents, regents, and mayors, and even create laws, including the latest one concerning the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK)," he said before thousands of NasDem members.
However, in addition to the rights that political parties have, there are also obligations that must be fulfilled, one of which is in the process of ongoing political education from time to time in order to build public democratic awareness.
In addition, political parties must be present to provide exemplary behavior and be able to make active contributions in social interactions within society.
