Jakarta (ANTARA) -
In his first address after resigning from the vice presidency, Gibran Rakabuming Raka expressed gratitude to President Prabowo Subianto for his trust over the last two years.
"To Mr. President Prabowo Subianto, I thank you for all the trust and opportunities to be part of the government," Gibran said in his official remarks, as quoted here on Thursday.
He also commended cabinet ministers, state apparatus, religious, public, and customary figures, and all other partners with whom he worked as vice president.
"I thank you all for your collaboration and togetherness in guarding the government's priority programs and resolving any issues faced by our people," the former VP continued.
Gibran said that when he was inducted as Prabowo's deputy in October 2024, he was determined that the leadership position is "temporary," while national unity and the future are "everything."
He added that, ultimately, a leader must have the courage to make major decisions that prioritize the greater good over personal interests. This, he emphasized, is far more important than any political title one may hold.
"Therefore, today on November 12, 2026, after long consideration with full conscience and love for all the Indonesian people, I decided to resign from my position as Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia and return the mandate to the people," Gibran stated.
Though not easy, Gibran said the decision is the best.
He also stressed that the resignation was made due to personal considerations and not related to the ongoing polemic regarding the validity of his school diploma.
After a Constitutional Court ruling last October found no evidence that he held a foreign diploma or degree equivalent to an Indonesian senior high school qualification, the Supreme Court later declared Gibran's education equivalency certificate invalid.
Gibran expressed hope the current crisis will not be repeated in the future and emphasized the need to improve Indonesia's democracy.
Concluding his remarks, Gibran again expressed gratitude for all support, criticism, prayers, and lessons obtained during his vice presidency.
President Prabowo Subianto on Thursday accepted Gibran Rakabuming Raka's decision to step down as vice president, confirming that he had received the resignation letter in the morning.
"With a heavy heart, I accept the letter and fully respect and support his decision," Prabowo said during a press conference at the Presidential Palace, accompanied by Gibran, parliamentary leaders, and several Cabinet ministers.