Indonesia Vice President Resigns Amid Eligibility Scandal

Indonesia Vice President Resigns Amid Eligibility Scandal

Indonesia’s Vice President, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, has resigned following a growing dispute over his eligibility to hold office. The resignation adds to political pressure on Indonesia’s government, which is also facing public dissatisfaction over economic challenges, corruption and wildfires.

Gibran submitted his resignation to President Prabowo Subianto and parliament on Thursday, according to the speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly.

President Prabowo later confirmed that he had accepted the resignation, describing the decision as difficult. Gibran had served two years of his five-year term.

The 39-year-old is the eldest son of former Indonesian President Joko Widodo. Following the announcement, Widodo said political positions were temporary and confirmed his continued support for the current government’s programmes.

Indonesia Vice President Faces Eligibility Questions

The resignation follows questions about Gibran’s educational qualifications and whether he met the requirements to become vice president in Indonesia.

The Constitutional Court and Supreme Court ruled last month that documents he submitted concerning his overseas education did not satisfy election requirements. Critics have also questioned whether he ever obtained a high school diploma.

Gibran had reportedly offered to resign earlier in the week to prevent the controversy from continuing. However, a cabinet minister said Prabowo had encouraged him to defend himself at the time.

The issue intensified after 120 lawmakers from eight political parties submitted a petition to parliamentary leaders. The move began a process that could lead to Gibran’s impeachment.

Under Indonesian law, House leaders must establish a special committee to examine whether he violated the Constitution by serving despite the eligibility concerns.

Indonesia to Begin Process of Selecting Replacement

Indonesia’s Constitution does not require a new national election when the vice presidential office becomes vacant.

Instead, the president must nominate two candidates, and the People’s Consultative Assembly must elect a replacement within 60 days.

Gibran’s resignation comes as thousands of Indonesians have protested against economic hardship, corruption, perceived authoritarianism and the government’s response to devastating wildfires.

Indonesia is also facing investigations into allegations that senior police officials were involved in wiretapping activities targeting the president.

The educational credentials dispute is reportedly separate from the wiretapping investigation.

Gibran’s departure adds another challenge for Indonesia’s President Prabowo as his administration faces growing political pressure and public dissatisfaction.