President Prabowo Subianto warned political elites on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, that human civilization is plagued by betrayal driven by the temptation of power.
Speaking at the 15th anniversary of the NasDem Party at the NasDem Tower in Jakarta, Prabowo addressed a gathering of cabinet ministers, parliamentary leaders, and political chiefs.
“The history of human civilization is replete with cases of betrayal because power is very tempting. Those in power are often tempted,” Prabowo said, as noted by detikNews.
He cited a famous dictum regarding corruption and authority. “Power tends to corrupt, absolute power corrupts absolutely,” he said.
Prabowo jokes about being tapped during remarks to Bahlil Lahadalia
When opening his remarks, Prabowo playfully apologized for addressing Golkar Party Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia before other party leaders, pointing to recent security developments, as reported by Compass.
“Oh, my bad. The political party leaders should have gone first. Golkar Party Chairman, Bahlil Lahadalia. I apologize. The past few days have been quite dynamic,” said Prabowo, according to Kompas.
“Maybe I’m being tapped,” he said, drawing laughter from the crowd, as detailed by coil.
Surya Paloh expresses support for the current administration
NasDem Chairman Surya Paloh used the anniversary event to express unwavering support for the current administration.
“We all pray that you remain healthy and well, remain enthusiastic, smile more, and are able to consolidate your ranks, and among those ranks is Nasdem,” said Paloh, according to Kompas.id.
ANTARA News Jambi reported that Prabowo acknowledged his long-standing friendship with Paloh, noting that despite past political divergences, they share a commitment to national development and popular welfare.
Questions about NasDem anniversary attendees and wiretapping charges
Who attended the 15th anniversary of the NasDem Party?
The celebration at NasDem Tower brought together numerous political leaders and cabinet officials. Attendees included Golkar Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia, PAN Chairman Zulkifli Hasan, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Sugiono, and State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi, according to ANTARA News Jambi.
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