Indonesia has posthumously awarded former President Suharto the title of National Hero, despite his 32-year rule being marked by authoritarianism, mass killings, and corruption allegations. The decision was made by President Prabowo Subianto Suharto’s former son-in-law and current head of state during a ceremony at the presidential palace in Jakarta.
Suharto, who died in 2008, ruled from 1967 to 1998 after toppling Indonesia’s founding leader Sukarno. His era brought economic growth but ended amid the 1997–98 Asian financial crisis and violent nationwide protests that forced his resignation.
Why It Matters
The move has reignited debates over Indonesia’s reckoning with its authoritarian past and fears of historical revisionism. Critics say honoring Suharto risks legitimizing his repressive legacy and signals a troubling return to military-dominated politics under President Prabowo, himself accused of past human rights abuses.
Pro-democracy activists: Condemned the decision as an attempt to whitewash history. Protesters gathered in Jakarta, saying it disregards victims of Suharto’s rule.
Victims’ families: Groups like Aksi Kamisan continue weekly vigils demanding justice for disappearances and killings during the Suharto era.
Government officials: Defended the award, with Culture Minister Fadli Zon claiming Suharto met all requirements and his alleged role in the 1965–66 mass killings “was never proven.”
Political analysts: Warn that the move may embolden Prabowo’s administration to expand military influence and soften public memory of Suharto’s crimes.
What’s Next
The decision is likely to deepen Indonesia’s polarization over how to remember its turbulent past. Civil society groups are expected to intensify calls for accountability for Suharto-era abuses, while Prabowo’s government may continue framing his legacy as one of “stability and development.”
Democracy advocates fear the recognition could pave the way for further rehabilitation of authoritarian figures in Indonesia’s political landscape.
With information from Reuters.