JAKARTA, The Kabar News—President Prabowo Subianto thanked Gibran Rakabuming Raka for his work during their election campaign and two years in government after accepting his resignation as vice president on Thursday, Nov. 12.

Speaking alongside Gibran at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, Prabowo said his former running mate had contributed to the administration’s work by monitoring government programs across Indonesia.

“I want to say that he has greatly assisted me, starting from the campaign to secure a mandate from the people,” Prabowo said. “During our two years in government, we achieved many tangible results for our people.”

Prabowo said he had asked Gibran to visit provinces and remote communities from the beginning of their administration. The assignment allowed Gibran to check projects and assess how government programs worked outside Jakarta.

Meanwhile, Prabowo focused on national policy and regulatory reform. He said he also worked to improve government efficiency and address misconduct in state institutions.

The president linked that division of responsibilities to his efforts to align Indonesia’s economic system with Articles 33 and 34 of the 1945 Constitution. The two articles address the national economy and the state’s responsibility for social welfare.

Prabowo added that geopolitical tensions required him to devote greater attention to international affairs. He cited conflicts in the Middle East and their effects on the global economy as examples of issues requiring presidential oversight.

According to figures presented by Prabowo, Gibran visited 35 provinces and 149 regencies and cities during his time in office. He also inspected 303 government project sites.

“This demonstrates his hard work, dedication and commitment in carrying out his mandate,” Prabowo said. “For all his service and hard work, I express my deepest gratitude and appreciation.”

Prabowo said he accepted Gibran’s resignation with a heavy heart but respected the decision.

“For me, he has shown courage, full responsibility and statesmanship,” Prabowo said, according to the Presidential Secretariat.

Prabowo said Gibran believed he had completed his education through the proper procedures. He acknowledged, however, that overseas and Indonesian education systems use different standards.

“He naturally feels that he completed his education through an orderly process, but we understand that education systems abroad differ from Indonesia’s system,” Prabowo said.

Gibran has rejected suggestions that his resignation amounted to an admission of problems with his educational documents. He described the decision as a personal step intended to allow the government to move forward with greater focus.

The former vice president submitted resignation letters to Prabowo and the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR). His departure started a constitutional process in which Prabowo must propose two candidates and the MPR must elect one of them within 60 days of the vacancy.

Prabowo closed his statement by calling on Indonesians to protect national unity and maintain peace during the political transition. He also said he would continue supporting Gibran and his family.