Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka resigned on Thursday as legal and political pressure continued regarding the validity of his overseas educational credentials.
Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) Ahmad Muzani confirmed the resignation, noting that the assembly will process the vacancy within a 60-day window.
The 39-year-old politician, who is the eldest son of former President Joko Widodo, submitted his resignation to President Prabowo Subianto. “deepest gratitude for Mr Gibran's dedication, commitment and hard work” in the role, President Prabowo Subianto said during a press conference at the Presidential Palace, expressing gratitude for Gibran's work, including visits to 35 provinces and the oversight of over 300 government projects.
Lawmakers Petition for Gibran's Impeachment
Gibran’s departure follows rulings by the Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court last month which determined that documents submitted regarding his overseas education failed to meet election requirements. Critics have alleged that Gibran never received a high school diploma, with the controversy centering on documents from UTS College in Sydney, previously known as UTS Insearch.
On Wednesday, 120 lawmakers from eight political parties submitted a petition to the House of Representatives seeking Gibran’s impeachment. Under Indonesian law, this triggers the formation of a special committee to determine if a constitutional violation occurred. If the committee finds sufficient grounds, the House must refer the matter to the Constitutional Court for a final ruling.
Political Dynamics and Public Unrest
The resignation occurs against a backdrop of widespread public dissatisfaction. Thousands have recently protested in various Indonesian cities over economic hardship, corruption, and the government’s response to months of wildfires, which have caused toxic air quality. Reports also indicate rising tensions within the ruling coalition, including investigations into allegations that police officials wiretapped the president.
Former President Joko Widodo, speaking from his hometown in Solo, acknowledged the resignation by stating that political positions are temporary. “There will always be political dynamics in public office, that’s normal,” Widodo told reporters, adding that he remains supportive of President Prabowo’s administration.
Process for Replacing the Vice President
Under the Indonesian Constitution, the resignation of a vice president does not trigger a new national election. The position remains vacant until the People’s Consultative Assembly selects a successor. The president must nominate two candidates for the assembly to vote on within the 60-day timeframe mentioned by Muzani.
Common Questions Regarding the Resignation
Does this resignation trigger a new election in Indonesia?
No, the Indonesian Constitution does not require a new election for the vice presidency. The People’s Consultative Assembly will elect a replacement from two candidates nominated by the president.
What specific educational document is at the center of the dispute?
According to reporting by ABC, the documents in question were issued by the Ministry of Education based on a Certificate of Attendance and an academic transcript from UTS College in Sydney.
Critics argued these did not constitute a valid high school graduation certificate.
What is the current status of the impeachment process?
A petition signed by 120 lawmakers was submitted on Wednesday to the House of Representatives. The process requires a special committee to investigate whether the vice president violated the constitution, which could lead to a formal review by the Constitutional Court.