Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has suggested eliminating direct elections for regional leaders as part of a cost-saving measure. Speaking at the Golkar Party congress late Thursday, Prabowo proposed that mayors and governors be chosen by regional legislatures rather than through public voting.

The president argued that abolishing regional elections could save substantial funds, which could be redirected toward crucial needs like school meal programs and infrastructure improvements. “We feel the democracy that we have… there are things that we need to fix together,” Prabowo said. “How many trillions are spent in one or two days?”

Indonesia, the world’s third-largest democracy, currently holds two nationwide elections—one for the presidency and legislature, and another for regional leadership positions. Prabowo’s proposal resembles the “New Order” era under former authoritarian leader Suharto, Prabowo’s father-in-law, when regional leaders were appointed by legislatures rather than elected by the public.

Critics argue this system lacked transparency and undermined public accountability. Prabowo, a former special forces commander during the Suharto regime, has faced allegations of human rights abuses during that time—claims he has repeatedly denied.

Since his election in February, where he garnered 58% of the vote, Prabowo has consolidated power by forming an overwhelming parliamentary coalition. This dominance has raised concerns among activists and analysts about potential democratic regression in Indonesia.

Political analyst Yoes C. Kenawas criticized the proposal, calling it an attempt to “cut corners” and warning of its implications for democracy. “This could be a setback to Indonesia’s democracy,” Kenawas said. “Regional elections remain the best way for people to hold local leaders accountable.”

Prabowo’s office has not clarified whether the president intends to formally advance the proposal, which would require significant amendments to Indonesia’s election laws. For now, the idea has sparked debate about the balance between efficiency and democratic integrity in one of the world’s most populous nations.