Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has declared ten individuals as “national heroes” on November 10, Heroes Day, including former President Soeharto, who ruled the country from 1965 to 1998. The decision has sparked widespread controversy and condemnation, with over 80 public figures, including historians, signing a letter protesting the move. Critics argue that honoring Soeharto undermines the suffering of victims of his authoritarian regime.
During his three-decade rule, Soeharto oversaw a period marked by extensive human rights abuses and corruption. His government imposed strict media censorship, curtailed freedoms of expression and assembly, manipulated the judiciary, and carried out widespread torture and persecution. Under his leadership, massacres of alleged communists and atrocities in East Timor, Aceh, West Papua, and the Moluccan Islands left a dark legacy. Soeharto’s administration was also notorious for large-scale corruption, enriching his family and allies while millions of Indonesians remained in poverty.
President Prabowo’s decision to name Soeharto a national hero has raised serious concerns about the country’s democratic values and commitment to justice. Prabowo himself has faced accusations of human rights abuses and war crimes during his time as a general under Soeharto, including involvement in the abduction of pro-democracy activists in 1998. His administration has been criticized for supporting policies that increase military influence in civilian governance and reduce accountability for military misconduct.
The decision to honor Soeharto not only rehabilitates his tarnished image but also risks distorting Indonesia’s historical record. The lack of accountability for crimes committed during Soeharto’s rule continues to hinder justice for victims and their families. By glorifying a leader associated with oppression and corruption, Indonesia risks deepening impunity and weakening future efforts to uphold human rights and democratic integrity.
