President Prabowo Clarifies Controversial Remarks on Forgiving Corruptors
In a bid to calm the storm sparked by his earlier statement, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has clarified his stance on forgiving corruptors, insisting that he never intended to pardon them without redress. Speaking at an event marking Indonesia‘s National Christmas Celebration at the Indonesia Arena, Gelora Bung Karno Complex (GBK), Senayan, Jakarta on Saturday (28/12) evening, Prabowo set the record straight.
"I’m being misunderstood by some," he began. "They say I want to forgive corruptors. No, that’s not the case. If the corruptors truly repent, what would religious leaders say? They should return what they stole. That’s not me forgiving them, but them making amends."
Prabowo emphasized his desire to conscientize those who’ve committed corruption to swiftly repent and make amends. "I want to urge those who’ve already sinned to repent. All religions teach this. Repent, and return the stolen money. Before we seize your assets, where else would we look?" he stated.
During the same event, Prabowo also rallied Indonesians to collectively uphold justice and truth. Specifically, he challenged the government apparatus to cleanse itself. "I urge all parties who want to protect the people, uphold the truth and justice, and eliminate corruption, to unite with us. The people demand a clean government," he declared. "As I was elected by the people, I order all Indonesian government apparatus to cleanse yourselves."
