Prabowo’s oversized Cabinet aims to hit the ground running, but sparks gridlock fears
Indonesia’s bureaucracy, already frequently criticised for inefficiency, faces renewed concerns as businesses fear the expanded Cabinet could cause further delays
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[JAKARTA] After being sworn in as Indonesia’s eighth president on Sunday (Oct 20), Prabowo Subianto swiftly unveiled his Cabinet, signalling a drive to hit the ground running. However, business leaders and investors have expressed concerns that the Cabinet’s size could lead to inefficiencies and slower policymaking.
On the other hand, Prabowo’s supporters argue that his top-down military leadership style will enhance policymaking efficiency within the expanded Cabinet, foster stronger collaboration with regional leaders, and promote his vision of an economic system characterised by “centralised decentralisation”.
On Monday, Prabowo inaugurated his Cabinet, named “Merah Putih” in honour of Indonesia’s national flag. With 53 ministers and 56 deputy ministers, it is the largest Cabinet in the country’s history.
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