Subianto is the eighth president of Indonesia, and while representing his pledge to a strong government, he named his cabinet of ministers, vice ministers, and heads of national agencies the “Red and White Cabinet.” Referring to the colour of the Indonesian flag.
On Sunday, 20th October 2024, he announced the largest cabinet of 109 members in the country’s history. It consists of members from seven parties that backed Subianto’s February election victory, along with members of Widodo’s Cabinet who were reappointed to their positions under Subianto’s presidency. According to AP News, analysts believe this was a political reward for Widodo’s implicit support during the election.
Widodo was Subianto’s rival. He twice contested the presidency against him and refused to concede defeat in both the 2014 and 2019 elections. However, after his reelection, Widodo appointed Subianto as defence chief, fostering an alliance despite their opposing political parties.
Subiato mentioned, “I want to create a strong government that would unite our multicultural society and diverse political interests.” However, according to political analysts, Subianto’s decision will bloat the bureaucracy.
About the Cabinet Members
Further AP news mentioned that the Subianto appointed nearly half the cabinet, including the finance minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati (the only minister to serve under three different presidents). She has served as the International Monetary Fund’s executive director and World Bank’s managing director.
Moreover, Subianto was sworn in with his new vice president, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, who is also the son of Widodo.
