Indonesia: Vice-president resigns amid political pressure over educational qualifications
What's the story
Indonesia's Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has resigned from his post, just two years into a five-year term. The resignation was submitted to the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) on Thursday after meeting President Prabowo Subianto. The decision came amid political pressure over questions surrounding Gibran's educational qualifications, particularly whether his overseas education met Indonesia's eligibility requirements for presidential and vice-presidential candidates.
Qualification debate
Controversy over Gibran's educational qualifications
Gibran, who is former president Joko Widodo's eldest son, completed his secondary education at Singapore's Orchid Park Secondary School and studied at Australia's UTS Insearch.
However, critics questioned whether these overseas qualifications met the requirement of completing senior high school or an equivalent level of education in Indonesia.
The Constitutional Court found no convincing evidence that Gibran possessed a foreign diploma or equivalent qualification.
Certificate controversy
Supreme Court invalidates equivalency certificate
The Supreme Court later invalidated an equivalency certificate that had been issued to support Gibran's educational qualifications.
This decision led to calls for his impeachment, with over 100 lawmakers backing a petition seeking his removal from office.
Despite the pressure, Gibran maintained that his resignation was a personal decision and not an admission of inadequate educational qualifications.
Political journey
Controversies surrounding Gibran's election as vice-president
Gibran's journey to the vice-presidential office was controversial from the start.
In 2024, he was only 36 and serving as Solo mayor, falling short of the minimum age requirement of 40 for presidential and vice-presidential candidates.
However, a ruling by Indonesia's Constitutional Court allowed candidates under 40 with prior elected regional leadership experience to contest elections.
This ruling was made by Indonesia's Constitutional Court, headed by Anwar Usman, Gibran's uncle and Jokowi's brother-in-law, fueling accusations of nepotism.
Succession process
What next?
Gibran's decision to resign opens the door for the appointment of a new vice president to serve for the rest of Prabowo's term.
Under Indonesia's Constitution, Prabowo Subianto, as president, must nominate two candidates for the vacant position.
The MPR will then elect a replacement from these nominees within 60 days.