Politics of the Student Organization
In recent years, the Alliance of Indonesian Student Executive Bodies (BEM SI) has been a beacon of hope amidst uncertainty in the future of this country. It encourages not only students, but also civilians all across Indonesia to join hands in voicing concerns about government policies that are potentially harmful. But now it appears that the alliance itself has been divided.
The Public Reactions to Tom Lembong’s Case
The court has recently declared former Minister of Trade (2015-2016), Thomas “Tom” Trikasih Lembong, guilty in the alleged sugar import corruption case. This verdict set off a backlash not only from his supporters, but also legal experts and the general public. Many of them sense potential criminalization in the judicial proceedings of this case.
The First Week of Sekolah Rakyat
People’s School, or Sekolah Rakyat (SR) as Indonesians call it, officially kicked off last Monday (14/07). 63 schools have been launched so far, and the students now have to complete the school orientation period for 2-3 months before starting their study. This ambitious project is part of Prabowo’s efforts to eradicate poverty, aiming to provide children from impoverished families equal chances for education. But, just like any other project, it comes with pros and cons.
Nadiem tests Prabowo’s commitment
So, four suspects have been named in the Chromebook scandal, including Jurist Tan, former special staff of Nadiem Makarim (former minister of education). Nadiem has several times been examined as witness in the case, but yet to be named suspect despite allegation of ‘active role’ in the US$660 million procurement project. Will he ever be named a suspect?
Reda Manthovani and the rumored Attorney General appointment
Prof. Dr. Reda Manthovani, S.H., LL.M., has emerged as one of the strongest candidates for the position of Attorney General. Although no official announcement has been made, a combination of political signals and Reda’s professional background suggests that he is being positioned for one of the most strategic roles in Indonesia’s legal system.
Gerakan Rakyat, Anies’ Political Vehicle for 2029
“Gerakan Rakyat”, a new mass organization established by Anies Baswedan volunteer groups, begins to consider becoming a political party. Not only will it be a forum for people with shared political beliefs and agendas, but also a political vehicle for Anies Baswedan in his future endeavours, including perhaps the next presidential election.
The Shadow of Politicization
The inauguration of the Central Board of the Alumni Association of the Indonesian Islamic Students Movement (PB IKA PMII) for the 2025–2030 term on July 13 reaffirmed a growing reality: student alumni organizations are no longer immune from high-level political maneuvering. Far from being a mere intellectual gathering, the event became a symbolic arena for elite consolidation and political alignment.
More politicians in Pertamina
As if having both chairman and chief executive of Pertamina is not enough, the government appointed more politicians from President Prabowo Subianto’s Gerindra Party as commissioners in subsidiaries of the state oil and gas company. Pretty much as informed by our sources at Pertamina few weeks ago.
What happens to Riza Chalid-Prabowo?
Even when son Kerry was named suspect in a corruption case, some were caught by surprise given past relationship between father Riza Chalid with President Prabowo Subianto. Now that Riza himself is named suspect in the case, some wonder what actually happened?
Restorative Justice or Restorative Chaos?
The recent controversy surrounding the proposed release of suspects in the vandalism of a Christian retreat house in Cidahu, Sukabumi—put forward by the Special Advisor to the Minister of Human Rights, Thomas Harming Suwarta—reveals a deeper issue within the Ministry of Human Rights.