Jakarta – Standing at the podium inside the Supreme Court Building on Thursday (June 12), Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto spoke not only as the nation’s leader but as the voice of millions of ordinary citizens longing for justice. His voice trembled with emotion as he reminded the audience that many Indonesians lack the power to navigate the legal system—placing their hopes entirely in fair and principled judges.

Prabowo held back tears as he addressed the swearing-in ceremony of 1,451 Supreme Court judges, delivering a heartfelt message about the meaning of justice for society’s most vulnerable.

Before the nation’s judiciary, he underscored the vital role of judges, stating that they are not just government officials but the last line of defense for citizens without power, money, or influence.

“You are the final bastion of justice,” he said in a restrained tone before continuing, “The poor, the weak, can only hope for fair and righteous judges.”

His words were deliberate, filled with emotion, as he occasionally paused to compose himself before proceeding.

Prabowo then contrasted the legal imbalance between the wealthy and the powerless:

“The powerful, the rich—they have options. They can assemble extraordinary legal teams. But ordinary people have only one lifeline: judges who are fair. Judges who cannot be bribed. Judges who cannot be bought. Judges who love justice. Judges who stand for the people,” he declared firmly.

In a defining moment, Prabowo also demonstrated his awareness of the judiciary’s struggles, revealing that he had ordered a long-overdue increase in judicial salaries—a reform sought by Indonesia’s judges for 18 years. He acknowledged that many judges live in hardship despite handling critical cases.

Beyond that, Prabowo criticized flaws in the nation’s law enforcement system, arguing that justice ultimately hinges on judges, not just police or military strength.

“It doesn’t matter how great our police or military are—if corrupt officials and thieves of public funds can escape justice in court, all efforts are in vain,” he asserted.

Then, in a poignant and unscripted exchange, Prabowo turned toward Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, who was present in the audience, and remarked:

“I feel for your officers, Chief.”

It was more than a statement—it was a reflection of Prabowo’s concern for law enforcement personnel who work tirelessly but risk seeing their efforts undone by judicial corruption.