Prabowo’s participation in the initial debate of the Indonesian presidential election underscored two points: he has undergone massive changes since 2019, and it is evident that he could benefit from some rest.
I distinctly remember how I perceived Prabowo five years ago: a formidable leader with a deep understanding of both theoretical principles and practical applications, someone I believed should have emerged victorious in the election.
Certainly, it might be considered offensive when considering Prabowo’s human rights record. However, in my opinion, when compared to Jokowi, Prabowo was never an equal competitor. I believed he possessed broader knowledge in politics and defense, as well as a charismatic presence and rhetoric.