Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka officially resigned on Thursday, November 12, 2026, as questions regarding his eligibility for office intensified following recent court rulings. The 39-year-old, who is the son of former President Joko Widodo, submitted his formal resignation letter to the leadership of the People's Consultative Assembly at the parliament building in Jakarta.
Raka, who offered his resignation to President Prabowo Subianto on Tuesday to prevent a prolonged political crisis, personally delivered the letter to the president on Wednesday. Following a meeting with Raka and parliamentary leaders at the presidential palace on Thursday, a somber President Prabowo addressed the nation, confirming he had accepted the resignation with a heavy heart. Prabowo praised Raka for his statesmanship, responsibility, and courage in prioritizing the interests of the nation and the Indonesian people.
Highlighting Raka's contributions during his two years in office, Prabowo noted that the vice president had inspected 303 government projects across 149 regencies and cities, as well as visited 35 provinces. The president stated that many government achievements would not have been possible without Raka's dedication and hard work, adding that he would continue to support him during this difficult time.
The resignation follows a ruling last month by both the Supreme Court and the Constitutional Court, which determined that the documents Raka submitted regarding his overseas education did not satisfy election requirements. Under Indonesian law, candidates for the presidency or vice presidency must hold a senior high school diploma or an equivalent qualification. Because Raka completed his secondary education abroad, he was required to provide proof of equivalency, which the courts found insufficient.
The situation escalated on Wednesday when 120 lawmakers from eight political parties submitted a petition to the House leadership, initiating a parliamentary process that could have led to impeachment. This push was largely driven by long-standing allegations that Raka’s candidacy was enabled by a controversial October 2023 Constitutional Court ruling, which critics argue represented a conflict of interest and dynastic privilege. That ruling had created an age exception, allowing Raka to run for office despite being under the standard age requirement of 40.
Former President Joko Widodo, speaking from his hometown in Solo, told reporters that political dynamics in public office are normal and that he had reminded his son that political positions are temporary. He reaffirmed his support for President Prabowo’s government, particularly regarding programs serving the public interest.
Raka is the first Indonesian vice president to resign before the end of his term since the fall of dictator Suharto and the start of the country's democratic reforms in 1998. Under the Indonesian Constitution, the vacancy does not trigger a new election. Instead, the People's Consultative Assembly must elect a replacement from two candidates nominated by the president within 60 days. Speaker Ahmad Muzani stated that parliamentary leaders would convene immediately to begin the selection process, asking for the prayers and support of the Indonesian people for a smooth transition.
