en.Sketsamalang.com – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has expressed his support for Gibran Rakabuming Raka following his decision to step down as vice president, saying the 39-year-old politician still has a long future ahead of him.
Speaking at a press conference at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Thursday (November 12, 2026), Prabowo said he believed Gibran would continue to have opportunities to contribute to the country despite leaving the vice presidency before completing his 2024–2029 term.
“I told him that I believe he is still very young and has a long future ahead of him,” Prabowo said during a press conference broadcast on the Presidential Secretariat‘s official YouTube channel on Thursday (November 12, 2026).
The president also expressed confidence in Gibran’s future career and public service, adding that he would continue to support him.
“I pray that he and his family will always be given strength in facing these difficult times,” Prabowo said.
Prabowo Accepts Gibran’s Decision
Prabowo also confirmed that he had received Gibran’s resignation letter earlier that morning. According to the president, Gibran personally visited the palace at 10:15 a.m. to submit the document.
“With a heavy heart, I accept the letter and fully respect and support his decision,” Prabowo said during the press conference.
The president described Gibran’s decision as a demonstration of responsibility and statesmanship. He also acknowledged the vice president’s contributions during their two years working together in government.
Prabowo said Gibran had visited 35 of Indonesia’s 38 provinces, 149 regencies and cities, and inspected 303 government project locations during his time in office.
“I have been greatly assisted by him, and he has performed his duties well,” Prabowo said.
He subsequently expressed gratitude for Gibran’s dedication and work throughout his tenure as vice president.
Read Also:
BAZNAS Opens 2026 Middle East Scholarship Applications for 300 Indonesian Students
Gibran’s Resignation Amid Political Controversy
Gibran’s resignation comes amid growing political and legal controversy surrounding his educational qualifications, which have drawn scrutiny over his eligibility for the vice presidency.
The controversy intensified following developments at Indonesia’s Supreme Court and Constitutional Court, as well as calls from lawmakers to pursue parliamentary proceedings against him.
Before formally submitting his resignation, Gibran had discussed his intention to step down with Prabowo during a meeting lasting approximately two and a half hours, according to State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi.
Prasetyo said the president offered several suggestions during the meeting, while Gibran requested an opportunity to establish the validity of his educational documents through the Administrative Court (PTUN), as reported by ANTARA News on November 11, 2026.
Gibran subsequently submitted his resignation to the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) on Thursday.
Following the announcement, the MPR began preparing the process to fill the vacant vice-presidential position in accordance with Indonesia’s constitutional procedures.
Prabowo’s latest remarks have therefore focused on acknowledging Gibran’s service, respecting his decision and expressing support for his future beyond the vice presidency.