Indonesia’s vice president has resigned in the midst of a scandal over his high school diploma, adding pressure on a government facing widespread dissatisfaction over the economy, corruption and wildfires.
Gibran Rakabuming Raka submitted his resignation to President Prabowo Subianto and parliament on Thursday, the speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly told reporters.
Speaking hours later at a press conference alongside Gibran at the Presidential Palace, Prabowo said he had accepted the resignation with a “heavy heart”.
Gibran is the eldest son of former President Joko Widodo, Prabowo’s immediate predecessor.
“There will always be political dynamics in public office, that’s normal,” Widodo told reporters from his hometown in Solo after the resignation, adding that he had reminded his son that political positions are temporary.
“We will continue to support President Prabowo’s government, especially programmes that serve the interests of the broader public,” the former leader said.
Gibran, 39, leaves office after serving two years of his five-year term as questions grew over his eligibility after recent court rulings disputed his educational credentials.
Under Indonesia’s Constitution, a vice presidential vacancy does not trigger a new election. The office remains vacant until the People’s Consultative Assembly elects a replacement from two candidates nominated by the president within 60 days.
Gibran had offered to resign on Tuesday during a meeting with the president, saying he wanted to avoid a prolonged political controversy.
Credit: aljazeera.com
