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President Prabowo Subianto following the inauguration of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) leadership. Photo: Antara
Corruption Eradication Often Faces Attacks from “Thug Groups”: Prabowo
Fajar Nugraha • 7 February 2026 18:29
Jakarta: President Prabowo Subianto said efforts to eradicate corruption in the country frequently encounter resistance from thug groups.
Speaking at a press conference following the inauguration of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) leadership for the 2025–2030 term at Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta on Saturday, President Prabowo referred to the presence of what he described as “thug groups” that regularly criticize and attack the government when anti-corruption measures are intensified.
“Every time we seek to eradicate corruption and uphold justice, these gangster groups retaliate. They try to create unrest and incite division among us,” Prabowo said as quoted from Antara, Saturday 7 February 2026.
“They do this because they do not want a clean government in the Republic of Indonesia,” Prabowo added.
On the same occasion, the President urged all segments of society, including religious scholars and community leaders, to unite in the fight against corruption.
“Let us stand together. We must safeguard this Republic, protect the nation’s wealth, and have the courage to eradicate corruption from the land of Indonesia,” he said.
Prabowo emphasized that Indonesia is a resource-rich country, but many citizens continue to live in poverty due to corruption that drains public resources.
He acknowledged that combating corruption remains a significant challenge, as those who have benefited from illicit practices continue to resist reform. Nonetheless, the President stressed that he remains committed to enforcing the law.
“I have sworn before the people to uphold the law. Therefore, I will not hesitate, and I will not retreat even a single step,” he said.
President Prabowo also expressed appreciation for the support of the Indonesian Ulema Council, saying it strengthened his resolve to pursue justice.
“Thank you to the Indonesian Ulema Council for this encouragement. It gives me greater confidence that united religious scholars will stand for justice in Indonesia,” he added.